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Tag Archives: Replacement Windows

What Are The Best Window Frame Types & Materials? It’s Not an Open & Shut Case

Replacement Window FramesIf you’re in the market for replacement windows in Kansas City, you no doubt have a lot of questions. One of those is probably, “Which kind of window frame is best – wood, aluminum, vinyl, composite, or fiberglass?” At All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding, we’re used to getting these kinds of questions. There is no simple answer because it changes for each homeowner. We dove a little deeper into the differences between our Andersen replacement window frames and summarized it below. Hopefully, this will help you make the right decision for your home and your budget.

6 Types of Window Frames Compared

Solid Wood

It’s been at the core of Andersen products for over 100 years. Wood provides strength and rigidity in both frames and sashes. Wood is mostly chosen for its beauty because it can be stained to match existing interior woodwork. Many homeowners prefer the natural look of wood and its overall thermal performance is hard to beat.

Pros & Cons – Great insulator against heat and cold, but it’s costly, requires maintenance, and is subject to swelling and contracting.

Aluminum

Aluminum provides a virtually maintenance-free exterior that resists the elements.It is strong, affordable, and low-maintenance, but conducts heat and cold, so it isn’t the most energy-efficient frame. It is also not the most aesthetically pleasing material for frames.

Pros & Cons – Strong, affordable, low-maintenance, but not as energy efficient or attractive as others.

Vinyl

Vinyl on its own provides an excellent low-maintenance exterior for any window and is available in a wide variety of colors. Where Andersen has innovated with vinyl is by using it as a protective cladding for its wood core windows. See below.

Pros & Cons – Affordable and low-maintenance, but color may fade over time.

Clad

The most expensive type, with wood frames inside and aluminum or vinyl shell on the outside; wood frame helps minimize the transfer of heat and cold, while the exterior shell makes the window low-maintenance.

Pros & Cons – Expensive, but very low maintenance and energy efficient.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a tough, weather-resistant material. They are maintenance free and can be combined with beautiful wood interior frames.

Pros & Cons – durable, maintenance free, lightweight, energy efficient.

Composites

Composites are new materials created to combine the best attributes of several materials. Composite windows are stronger and more durable than wood and vinyl, and can be painted to match a home’s decor.The price falls between wood and vinyl. Andersen’s Fibrex® composite window frames are two times as strong as vinyl, perform better when exposed to extreme temperatures and deliver exteriors that won’t fade, flake, blister or peel.

Pros & Cons – moderate price, extremely strong and durable, low maintenance, energy efficient, can be painted

We know it’s a lot of information, so start by prioritizing the benefits that you value the most. This will help you narrow down the field and make a final decision easier. If you have any questions or want to talk to an expert about replacement windows, give us a call at (913) 648-9589 or contact us online.

Best Home Improvements to Make This Summer

 

Some home improvements make your home look better. Some are more for maintenance, and others are to increase energy efficiency, add living areas, or improve your lifestyle. From mundane to fun, summer is the best time for home improvements. Take a look at this list and see if there are any to-dos that you can get done. 

9 Home Improvements and Repairs to Make This Summer

1. Power Wash

There’s nothing uglier than a home with mildew on the side of it. It’s usually on the north side where the sun doesn’t shine for long. But a quick hit with a power washer and some mildew removing detergent will have your home looking good as new. Power washers are also great for removing ground in grime from sidewalks, patios, driveways, porches, and foundations too. 

2. Install Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a smart move for comfort, energy savings and lowering the energy bill. Installing ceiling fans allows you to keep the air conditioner turned up a few extra degrees without feeling warmer. It’s the wind chill effect – it is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin caused by the effects of wind and cold. As the “wind (moving air from the fan blades) increases, the body is cooled at a faster rate causing the skin temperature to drop. 

3. Clean the Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause major problems with roof leaks, mold, and even structural damage if left for too long. Gutters should be cleaned twice a year. Clear large debris such as leaves and branches out and then hose gutters down to get rid of dirt and smaller debris like grit from shingles. Make sure to check the downspout for clogs and inspect the gutters for cracks, sags, or signs of rust. If gutters are in bad shape, you may need to replace them so they don’t cause damage to your home.

4. Build a Deck/Patio

Adding a deck or patio is one of the bigger projects, but definitely one of the more exciting changes you can make. It increases your home’s space, value, and enjoyment. You can spend more time together with family and friends and get outside and enjoy the season. 

5. Conduct a Home Energy Audit

There are companies who perform professional energy audits and they can tell you exactly where your home’s energy inefficiencies lie. But you can also do your own home energy audit to make it more comfortable or energy efficient. Simple things such as sealing leaks around drafty windows and doors, installing additional insulation (especially in the attic), and inspecting ductwork for leaks and sealing them will all help your home feel better and waste less energy. Don’t forget to change the furnace filter!

6. Inspect the Roof

The average lifespan of a roof is about 20 years. That doesn’t mean all roofs will last that long. Look for any broken or cracked shingles, any areas that look weathered or curled on the edges. If you experience standing water every time it rains, or you’ve noticed any leaks or water stains on your ceiling, it’s best to call a professional inspector. Catching roof problems early can prevent costly repairs later on.

7. Replace Old Drafty Windows

This is another job that’s on the bigger side and you’ll have to hire professionals to do it, but it will not only make your home look better and feel better, but it will raise the value of your home as well. Homeowners usually know when they need to replace their windows and summer is the best time to do it. New windows will make your home more energy efficient and lower energy bills. Here are the top three things to consider before buying windows.

8. Inspect Your Home’s Exterior 

Take some time to walk around your home and inspect the exterior walls. If you notice any peeling paint, cracks, sagging panels, mold growth, small holes, or any other damage to the walls or siding. Catching these problems early will help prevent wood rot (especially around windows) which can be costly to repair before painting. You may need to repaint, or you may decide to upgrade to new siding. Doing either will maintain your home’s curb appeal and resale value. Adding siding will also increase your home’s energy efficiency. Here are some siding tips.

9. Install New Doors

Entry doors are the gateways to your home and create a lasting first impression of your most important investment. An eye-catching front door will enhance your home’s perceived value. You will have a hard time finding a more beautiful investment in your home and return on your money. Plus, they will make your home more energy efficient. Here are 11 things you won’t get when you buy a door from a big box store.

All-Weather Windows, Doors, and Siding can help with quite a few of these home improvement projects. You can trust us for quality products and excellent installation. 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 the last three decades and we’d love to help you make your home more beautiful and energy efficient.

Call us at (913) 648-9589 for any window, door, or siding help. Or visit our showroom at 7710 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Overland Park to see our products up close. We’ll be happy to give you a free estimate.

3 Tricks to Spend the Least on the Best Replacement Windows

Best Replacement Windows in Kansas CityAt All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we know you want quality windows and you don’t want to pay more than you should. Since most homeowners only purchase replacement windows once or twice in a lifetime, it’s hard to know what they should cost. That’s why we put together these tips on buying the best replacement windows. If someone else tries to sell you something you don’t need, you’ll be armed with the information you need to make a smart decision.

There are basically three areas where you can spend erroneously thinking you need that feature or option, when in reality, it won’t provide much benefit. Take them all into consideration when researching and getting quotes and you’ll know how to avoid paying more for something you don’t really need.

1. Price Does Not Equal Performance

You may be inclined to think that a more expensive window is obviously a better window. That is not always the case. In an independent study of casement windows, the least expensive window scored highest. It all depends on the materials and the statistics. When comparing, look at energy ratings, materials (vinyl, wood, aluminum, composite), and warranties. All will affect your satisfaction level after the purchase. Decide which features are important to you and whether they are worth the extra cost difference.

2. Don’t Pay for More Energy Savings Than You Need

Window manufacturers make windows that can withstand some pretty extreme temperatures. However, if you live in the Kansas City area, do you really need windows that are rated for a much colder climate? Avoid overkill and get the windows that will deliver enough energy efficiency, but not way too much. The only place you’ll notice the difference is in your wallet. The NFRC label helps you compare between energy-efficient windows by providing you with energy performance ratings in multiple categories. While the ENERGY STAR label tells you that a product is energy-efficient, the NFRC helps you compare between energy-efficient products by giving you independent ratings in several energy performance categories.

3. Watch Out for Options & Upgrades

It’s easy to overspend on options. Upgrades can easily add 50% or more to the base cost of a window. If you add features, make sure to focus on the features that add value. Low-E coatings improve efficiency, but triple glazing probably isn’t necessary unless you live in an extremely cold climate. Double-hung window sashes (tilt in make cleaning easier), full screens, finer meshed screens, and hardware upgrades will quickly add up, so be careful.  

Other Ways to Save on Replacement Windows

Keep More Money in Your Pocket with Pocket Replacement Windows

If your existing frames and sills are in good shape, you may be a good candidate for pocket replacement windows. Also known as partial replacement windows, these windows are slightly smaller and fit into the existing frames. You save money on materials and labor. Otherwise, you’ll need full-replacement windows.

Finding an Installer

Kansas City Andersen Windows DealerAt All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we choose to offer Andersen replacement windows to our Kansas City customers. The Andersen window brand has demonstrated integrity and innovation for over 100 years and 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.

Even the best windows won’t deliver the look or comfort you expect if they’re installed improperly. 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. You can have extra confidence that when we install your windows, we do it exactly the way the manufacturer recommends so the window provides superior performance for years to come. Additionally, using the same contractor for purchase and installation can minimize the chances of problems arising later.

If you’re looking into replacement windows, give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or contact us online and we’ll be happy to help you make this important decision with confidence.

5 Features Andersen Windows Have (And Your Windows Should Too)

Andersen Windows Kansas City

At All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we’ve keep quality and innovation in mind for the past 30 years. That’s why we specialize in Andersen Windows. So whether you’re looking for economy or variety, energy efficiency or architectural authenticity, hi-tech materials or low-maintenance design, you can count on Andersen for quality craftsmanship and reliable performance.

Check out why we consistently recommend Andersen Windows in Kansas City over any other window provider:

Andersen Windows Are Exclusively Strong

Are you looking for material that’s strong and durable? Look at Andersen’s Fibrex. Fibrex is a sustainable, green building material with 40% pre-consumer reclaimed wood fiber by weight, and twice the strength of vinyl that blocks thermal transfer nearly 700 times better than aluminum for improved overall energy efficiency. Because of its great thermal performance, we can even offer Fibrex windows with dark colors like black and dark bronze without the worry of heat damage to the frames.

Andersen Offers Beautiful and Custom Real Wood Interiors

Because a large portion of window manufacturers focus purely on low cost and low maintenance, you have limited choices when it comes to complementing your interior. Your options are typically an imitation veneer that looks like wood-grain contact paper and only comes in one or two colors that are difficult to match with your current decor. Ugh! 

Andersen’s Replacement choices fix this problem by offering custom stained or painted windows that coordinate perfectly with your home with unlimited colors and options to complement virtually any architectural style. This means you won’t have to sacrifice the look you love for convenience or price.

Looking for Low Maintenance Windows? Try Andersen’s Perma Shield Clad Exteriors

Did you know other manufacturers use formed aluminum to cover the wood, which can leak and cause wood rot? Not Andersen. Andersen have unique clads for your window that will ensure a lifetime of protection from the elements and freedom from wood rot. Andersen’s Perma Shield clad exteriors create a tough, protective shell that resists dents, repels water by completely sealing out moisture, and won’t peel, flake, blister or corrode. 

Andersen Windows Are Award Winning

With all of these advantages, it’s no wonder that Andersen® 400 Series windows have been named a Best Buy for Replacement Windows by Consumers Digest. Windows were judged on performance ratings, quality of construction and materials, ease of operation, and warranty.

Andersen TruScene Window Screens Are Clearly Better

We buy windows because they provide light and a way to see outside. So why ruin that with a screen that dulls the light and obscures the view? Andersen’s TruScene screens provide more than 50% greater clarity than conventional aluminum screens, letting in more fresh air and sunlight while keeping out small insects.

We are also proud to be Kansas City’s premier “KC Metro” Andersen Circle of Excellence showroom displaying the finest Andersen windows and patio doors. Looking to install new windows? Call us at (913) 648-9589 or schedule an appointment online.

 

Bay Window or Bow Window? What’s the Difference Anyway?

Bay Vs Bow WindowsThe names sound similar and the windows themselves are similar. So what in the heck is the difference between a bay window and a bow window? Both will let in lots of light and offer great views, but there are some key differences between the two…

Bay Vs. Bow Window Style

A bay window usually has three openings, so it’s like three separate windows that have been married and live together within one frame. The middle window is typically (though not always) the size of a standard picture window and it’s flanked by two standard-sized windows. If your home is modern, the bay window’s more angular look will probably suit you just fine, although a bay window isn’t relegated to only modern homes.

Most bow windows have four, five or more windows as opposed to the three in a classic bay window. This allows for a curved installation that can even extend around corners, effectively offering a view from two sides of your home! The bow window is generally a bit curvier style-wise, and is perfect for a Victorian style home, although again, it can be used in virtually any style of home.

Bay Vs. Bow Windows for Adding Light

Since the bow window has more openings, it’s usually wider than a bay window and allows more light to come into your home. Bay windows may let in slightly less light and offer slightly less privacy as views encompass more side angles. Either is beautiful, though, and light is one of the main benefits of both styles. They really open up a room making them feel more open and spacious.

Bow Vs. Bay Windows Exterior Considerations

Bay windows tend to extend further from the building. They are generally installed at angles of 90, 135 or 150 degrees from the house so most often protrude further than a bow window. If your home’s exterior is near a sidewalk or street, a bow window may be a better fit. Bow windows also tend to be wider, and can even be installed around the corner of the house.

Bay Windows Allow for More Floor Space

Another thing that’s nice about bay windows is that they bump out a bit from the side of the house, allowing for a bit more floor space inside, perfect for displaying a favorite piece of furniture or artwork.  They’re perfect for a breakfast nook, a window seat or just a wide sill that can accommodate a veritable jungle of houseplants. However, both types of window designs allow for the addition of window seats as an interior design feature so you needn’t discount the bow window from your options.

Bay Windows Give More Window Style Options

Bay windows can be flexible when it comes to each individual window type. If air circulation is important in your room, think carefully before choosing bow windows. While opening bow windows can be installed, they are sometimes more expensive or can disrupt the overall flow of the windows’ elegant curvature. Bay windows, on the other hand, can easily accommodate opening mechanisms and function just like ordinary windows. You can choose a combination of double-hung, casement, picture, or awning windows to create your bay window.

Bow Vs Bay Windows Cost Considerations

So which is right for your home? The decision will rest with your tastes and your budget. Bow windows are more expensive to install since they typically require tying into a soffit or a hip roof to seal out air and water. They’re also costlier because they’ve got more glass and more structure than a typical bay window.

Interested in exploring your window options in the Kansas City area? Don’t hesitate to contact us at All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, the area’s premier window experts!

Replacement Windows and Energy Efficiency – Know the Numbers

Replacement Windows and Energy EfficiencyThe energy performance of all ENERGY STAR qualified windows must be independently tested, certified, and verified according to test procedures established by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). NFRC is a third-party non-profit organization that sponsors certified rating and labeling to help consumers compare the performance of windows, doors, and skylights. Once rated by this third party, ENERGY STAR helps consumers to find NFRC-certified products with superior energy performance.

NFRC Rates Performance in Five Categories

The NFRC label can be found on all ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors, and skylights and rates performance in five categories: U-Factor, solar heat gain coefficient, air leakage, visible transmittance, and condensation resistance. ENERGY STAR qualification is based on U-factor and SHGC ratings only:

U-factor

Sometimes also referred to as U-value, U-factor measures the rate of heat transfer and tells you how well the window insulates. U-factor values generally range from 0.20 to 1.20 and are measured in Btu/h. ft² °F. The lower the U-factor, the better the window insulates.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient  (SHGC)

The SHGC is the amount of solar radiation admitted through a window. SHGC is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower the number, the better the window is at blocking unwanted heat from the sun. In warm climates, you’ll want the lowest number you can find; in cold areas, a higher number is better.

Energy Efficient Andersen Window Glass Options

At All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we choose to offer Andersen replacement windows to our Kansas City customers. The Andersen window brand has demonstrated integrity and innovation for over 100 years and 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.

Andersen offers one of the industry’s widest arrays of glass options, enabling you to find the right choice for your home.

energy efficient andersen windowsLow-E4® SmartSun™ Glass Offers our best overall thermal performance. It gives you the benefits of Low-E4® glass, plus it helps shield your home from the sun’s heat and filters out 95% of harmful UV rays while letting sunlight shine through.

 

Low-E4® Glass Offers outstanding thermal performance for climates where both heating and cooling costs are a concern. Up to 56% more energy efficient than ordinary dual-pane glass.

 

 

Low-E4® Sun Glass Offers outstanding thermal performance in southern climates where less solar heat gain is desired. It’s tinted for maximum protection from the effects of intense sunlight while providing all the benefits of Low-E4® glass.

 

Dual Pane Glass Dual-pane glass is available for projects where codes allow its use. See local code official for requirements in your area.

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 and we’ll help you choose the right Andersen windows for your home.

The Best Material for Replacement Window Frames? It’s Not an Open & Shut Case

Replacement Window FramesIf you’re in the market for replacement windows in Kansas City, you no doubt have a lot of questions. One of those is probably, “Which kind of window frame is best – wood, aluminum, vinyl, composite, or fiberglass?” At All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding, we’re used to getting these kinds of questions. There is no simple answer because it changes for each homeowner. We dove a little deeper into the differences between our Andersen replacement window frames and summarized it below. Hopefully, this will help you make the right decision for your home and your budget.

6 Types of Window Frames Compare

1. Solid Wood: It’s been at the core of Andersen products for over 100 years. Wood provides strength and rigidity in both frames and sashes. Wood is mostly chosen for its beauty because it can be stained to match existing interior woodwork. Many homeowners prefer the natural look of wood and its overall thermal performance is hard to beat.

Pros & Cons – Great insulator against heat and cold, but it’s costly, requires maintenance, and is subject to swelling and contracting.

 

2. Aluminum: Aluminum provides a virtually maintenance-free exterior that resists the elements.It is strong, affordable, and low-maintenance, but conducts heat and cold, so it isn’t the most energy-efficient frame. It is also not the most aesthetically pleasing material for frames.

Pros & Cons – Strong, affordable, low-maintenance, but not as energy efficient or attractive as others.

 

3. Vinyl: Vinyl on its own provides an excellent low-maintenance exterior for any window and is available in a wide variety of colors. Where Andersen has innovated with vinyl is by using it as a protective cladding for its wood core windows. See below.

Pros & Cons – Affordable and low-maintenance, but color may fade over time.

 

4. Clad: The most expensive type, with wood frames inside and aluminum or vinyl shell on the outside; wood frame helps minimize the transfer of heat and cold, while the exterior shell makes the window low-maintenance.

Pros & Cons – Expensive, but very low maintenance and energy efficient.

 

5. Fiberglass Fiberglass is a tough, weather-resistant material. They are maintenance free and can be combined with beautiful wood interior frames.

Pros & Cons – durable, maintenance free, lightweight, energy efficient.

 

6. Composites: Composites are new materials created to combine the best attributes of several materials. Composite windows are stronger and more durable than wood and vinyl, and can be painted to match a home’s decor.The price falls between wood and vinyl. Andersen’s Fibrex® composite window frames are two times as strong as vinyl, perform better when exposed to extreme temperatures and deliver exteriors that won’t fade, flake, blister or peel.

Pros & Cons – moderate price, extremely strong and durable, low maintenance, energy efficient, can be painted

 

We know it’s a lot of information, so start by prioritizing the benefits that you value the most. This will help you narrow down the field and make a final decision easier. If you have any questions or want to talk to an expert about replacement windows, give us a call at (913) 648-9589 or contact us online.

Buying Replacement Windows – The 5 Basic Decisions

So you’re getting ready to purchase replacement windows and you’re feeling a little overwhelmed. Don’t worry. The team at All Weather Window, Doors and Siding is here to help! All you have to do is break it down into five simple decisions. Take one at a time and soon you’ll know exactly what you’re looking for. Use these five basic categories to make your decisions easy:

1) Determine the Window Type

Windows come in a variety of styles. Here’s a little visual guide to help.

Buying Replacement Windows

 

 

Generally speaking, plan to replace the windows with the same style unless there’s a good reason not to. For instance, if your window is a casement window, but you’d rather be able to open that window, you can replace it with a double-hung. If you’d like to be able to open the window, but there is a walkway in front of it, you could switch to a sliding or gliding window that won’t intrude past the wall it is placed in when opened. Similarly, if you have two double-hung windows in your dining room, but for aesthetic reasons you’d prefer a picture window (or perhaps a bay or bow window), you can replace them with that style. Double-hung, casement, awning, sliding/gliding, picture, or specialty.

2) Choose the Materials

You have five choices when it comes to what your windows are made of: solid wood, vinyl- or aluminum-clad wood, solid vinyl, aluminum, or Fibrex (a composite material exclusive to Andersen windows). When comparing, look at these six performance areas – strength, insulation, beauty, maintenance, warranty, and price. Each type of window material will have advantages and disadvantages, so take your time when deciding which one makes more sense for you.

3) Energy Performance

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) operates a voluntary program that tests, certifies, and labels windows based on their energy performance ratings. The NFRC label provides a reliable way to determine a window’s energy properties and to compare products. The NFRC label can be found on all ENERGY STAR® qualified windows.

ENERGY STAR bases its qualification on U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient ratings. These properties can be measured and rated according to the following energy performance characteristics:

U-factor is the rate at which a window conducts non-solar heat flow. It’s usually expressed in units of Btu/hr-ft2-oF. For windows, a U-factor may refer to just the glass or glazing alone. NFRC U-factor ratings, however, represent the entire window performance, including frame and spacer material. The lower the U-factor, the more energy-efficient the window.

Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) is the fraction of solar radiation admitted through a window either transmitted directly and/or absorbed, and subsequently released as heat inside a home. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat it transmits and the greater its shading ability. A product with a high SHGC rating is more effective at collecting solar heat during the winter. A product with a low SHGC rating is more effective at reducing cooling loads during the summer by blocking heat gain from the sun.

Air leakage is the rate of air movement around a window in the presence of a specific pressure difference across it. It’s expressed in units of cubic feet per minute per square foot of frame area (cfm/ft2). A product with a low air leakage rating is tighter than one with a high air leakage rating.

If you’d like to learn more, you can read about energy performance ratings.

4) Decide the Details

What your window looks like is very important. Color, grille, and trim choices should work with your home’s style. Grille patterns, including colonial, prairie, and custom-designed windows, will allow you to match your new windows to your home’s current architecture, change your look, or even complete a historically accurate renovation. If you’d like to see what works best with your home, check out the  Home Style Library here.

5) Size It Up

Choose to replace with standard sizes if possible. Most windows come in increments of 2 or 4 inches, so there’s often no need to order custom sizes. Standard sizes will save you money. Save where you can and that will allow you to splurge when it’s really worth it and still stay within budget.

If you need information about replacement windows, give us a call at All Weather window, Doors & Siding and we’ll be happy to answer all of your questions. We will guide you through the choices that will work best for your project. We want you to know a little about the features you want, so you can be 100% happy with and confident in the choices you make.

We are an Andersen Circle of Excellence dealer. Call us at (913) 648-9589 or contact us online.

3 Tricks to Spend the Least on the Best Replacement Windows

Best Replacement Windows in Kansas CityAt All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we know you want quality windows and you don’t want to pay more than you should. Since most homeowners only purchase replacement windows once or twice in a lifetime, it’s hard to know what they should cost. That’s why we put together these tips on buying the best replacement windows. If someone else tries to sell you something you don’t need, you’ll be armed with the information you need to make a smart decision.

There are basically three areas where you can spend erroneously thinking you need that feature or option, when in reality, it won’t provide much benefit. Take them all into consideration when researching and getting quotes and you’ll know how to avoid paying more for something you don’t really need.

1. Price Does Not Equal Performance

You may be inclined to think that a more expensive window is obviously a better window. That is not always the case. In an independent study of casement windows, the least expensive window scored highest. It all depends on the materials and the statistics. When comparing, look at energy ratings, materials (vinyl, wood, aluminum, composite), and warranties. All will affect your satisfaction level after the purchase. Decide which features are important to you and whether they are worth the extra cost difference.

2. Don’t Pay for More Energy Savings Than You Need

Window manufacturers make windows that can withstand some pretty extreme temperatures. However, if you live in the Kansas City area, do you really need windows that are rated for a much colder climate? Avoid overkill and get the windows that will deliver enough energy efficiency, but not way too much. The only place you’ll notice the difference is in your wallet. The NFRC label helps you compare between energy-efficient windows by providing you with energy performance ratings in multiple categories. While the ENERGY STAR label tells you that a product is energy-efficient, the NFRC helps you compare between energy-efficient products by giving you independent ratings in several energy performance categories.

3. Watch Out for Options & Upgrades

It’s easy to overspend on options. Upgrades can easily add 50% or more to the base cost of a window. If you add features, make sure to focus on the features that add value. Low-E coatings improve efficiency, but triple glazing probably isn’t necessary unless you live in an extremely cold climate. Double-hung window sashes (tilt in make cleaning easier), full screens, finer meshed screens, and hardware upgrades will quickly add up, so be careful.  

Other Ways to Save on Replacement Windows

Keep More Money in Your Pocket with Pocket Replacement Windows

If your existing frames and sills are in good shape, you may be a good candidate for pocket replacement windows. Also known as partial replacement windows, these windows are slightly smaller and fit into the existing frames. You save money on materials and labor. Otherwise, you’ll need full-replacement windows.

Finding an Installer

Kansas City Andersen Windows DealerAt All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we choose to offer Andersen replacement windows to our Kansas City customers. The Andersen window brand has demonstrated integrity and innovation for over 100 years and 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.

Even the best windows won’t deliver the look or comfort you expect if they’re installed improperly. 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. You can have extra confidence that when we install your windows, we do it exactly the way the manufacturer recommends so the window provides superior performance for years to come. Additionally, using the same contractor for purchase and installation can minimize the chances of problems arising later.

If you’re looking into replacement windows, give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or contact us online and we’ll be happy to help you make this important decision with confidence.

Get Exactly What You Want with Andersen Windows

andersen windows kansas cityMany homeowners are hesitant to buy new replacement windows for their homes because they fear that they won’t be able to get the style of windows they want. Because All Weather Window and Doors is an Andersen Circle of Excellence Dealer, we can offer every window Andersen makes – and trust us, that’s a lot. We’ve broken it down into the series they offer to show you just how many choices you have.

Core Product Line

All Weather Andersen Windows

Andersen’s core product lines offer a variety of options. These include the 400-Series, the 200-Series and the 100-Series. Here are the differences in the core product lines:

 

400-Series Focuses on Performance and Style

 

The 400-Series is the most popular. We believe that’s because it blends quality and good looks seamlessly so our customers end up with a window that not only performs well, but also looks great. Andersen’s many years of excellent engineering bring you time-tested, classic wood craftsmanship that lives up to your high standards.

 

Andersen Windows 200 Series200-Series Brings High Quality at the Best Value

 

If you thought your budget couldn’t handle real wood windows, think again. Andersen’s 200-Series is built with affordability in mind. The secret to the savings is focusing on only the most popular designs and sizes. You’ll get Andersen quality, at a value that is unmatched in wood windows.

 

 

100 Series By Andersen Windows100-Series Uses Budget Friendly Fibrex Composite

 

The 100-Series is the smart alternative to vinyl windows. Andersen uses Fibrex®, a composite material that is twice as strong as vinyl and very low maintenance for a durable, sustainable, energy-efficient window at a budget-friendly price.

Related Read: 5 Features Andersen Windows Offer That Other Windows Don’t

 

Architectural Collection

Andersen’s luxury line is dedicated to style, performance and innovation. It consists of the E-Series and the A-Series. Here is the breakdown of these collections:

 

Andersen Windows E-Series in Kansas City

E-Series Allows Customization

 

From custom colors, to dramatic sizes and dynamic shapes, to exotic woods and more, your window will certainly be an original. With their E-Series, Andersen offers unlimited possibilities to create a window that’s custom made for you and your home. Andersen provides homeowners with a unique design opportunity, allowing you to custom-create the home of your dreams.

 

A-Series Andersen Window Replacement

A-Series Matches Architectural Styles

 

Windows contribute greatly to the architectural style of your home. With their A-Series, Andersen designed a collection of windows with authentic architectural style as their number one goal. Every piece of hardware, every sash, and every accessory works together to create architectural authenticity. And, of course, with Andersen, you get unparalleled performance as well. No matter what style your home is, Andersen has a window that is a perfect architectural fit.

 

We are proud to be an Andersen Window Circle of Excellence dealer. If you have any questions about Andersen windows, the products they offer, or the styles available, give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or contact us online. We will be happy answer all of your window and door questions.

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