If you’ve spent a little time shopping for replacement windows you’ve probably already discovered that there are some characters out there. They have all sorts of interesting window sales strategies, tricks and scams.
Before you start thinking all window salespeople are jerks read this.
Some folks can be worse than others, but we’ll explain some of the most manipulative window sales tactics in use out there so you can know how to avoid them. The fact that a company uses any of these tactics doesn’t necessarily reflect on the quality of the product they offer, but it most certainly does tell you how they treat their customers.
A few of the more common tactics we’ll cover:
- The neighborhood discount
- The 1-year price, the 30 day price and the TODAY price
- The husband and wife MUST both be present
- The appointment saver discount
- The model home program
- Buy 2 get 1 free windows
- Window trade-in program
- Time management discounts
- Half off labor or FREE labor
- We’ll add your order to another big order to get you a lower price
- Your windows cost more because they’re bigger
- All warranties are basically the same
- My shorter warranty is shorter, but that’s actually better
- The you deserve it close – buy it before you die!
- Does more expensive mean “better” when it comes to new windows?
If you want to watch some videos of live and in person window sales training so you can see what it looks like behind the scenes check out this section!
You’ll get the idea pretty quickly. Whenever we talk to folks about these window sales tactics they will inevitably say “oh, I’d never go for something like that”, but these companies do millions of dollars in business with these exact tactics every single year. Someone’s buying it.
Why would a company employ tactics like this? Because they know they’re not offering a great deal. You can be sure that every real company out there has a pretty good idea of what their competitors are offering and how their pricing compares. If you did this for a living you’d have all of that info at your fingertips too.
If you were selling a product at a price that you knew was not competitive you would need to do everything in your power to get the customer to buy without shopping around. You would know for certain that if they did shop around they’d discover a better deal and you’d lose the business.
You couldn’t tell them that you want them to buy on the spot because you’re offering a bad deal so you’d need to come up with a better story. Whether it’s a manufacturers rebate, an appointment saver discount, a model home program or something else the real reasoning is all the same. It’s to entice the customer to buy without understanding their options.
Successful companies are pretty good at this so you need to tread carefully. The important factor to remember is that nothing in this business changes on a daily basis. A deal they would offer today is a deal they would accept tomorrow no matter what they tell you. If you remember nothing else, remember that it’s always smart to take your time and consider your options. You’ll be shocked at how much you will save.
Take a look through the links above for more detailed information on each of these window sales tactics. We’ll also be posting information on window features that are just hot air like this one on windows with magnetic seals. Enjoy!
Other posts you might find helpful:
- Is triple pane glass worth the cost?
- Why you should NEVER buy Simonton windows
- Can you get window prices online?
- How to find a good local window company
- Top lies told by window salespeople
How can I find a great window company to work with?
That part is easy. Check this section to find our recommended window companies all over the country including my company. I’m sure you’ll appreciate the difference. Enjoy!
Okay, how do Atrium windows series 9000 compare to Uniframe and Alside Mezzo?
Acceptable, how can Atrium windows collection 9000 evaluate to Uniframe and also Alside Mezzo?
Clearview Home Energy Solutions. They wrote the book.
Thanks for your articles – I particularly liked the “The 1-year price, the 30 day price and the TODAY price” one, as I had the same thoughts as I was given a sales pitch.
Here’s my question — what should this all cost? I’m replacing 6 ‘regular’ size casement windows, and the estimates I have so far ranging from Simentons to Anderson 400s to Marvin Infinity to Thompson Creek is $6200-$8000. It seems like most websites I look at say the cost including instillation shoudl be <$1000/window. Can you please advise?
And finally – how do you feel about Home Depot instillation? I feel like they were the most straightforward in presenting options and were reasonably priced.
We have a whole post about Home Depot window installations around here somewhere. I’d say you can probably find a better deal from a window company rather than a hardware store. You should be able to do it for WAY under $1000 per window. We’ll send you an email right now with a recommendation for a local company that can probably help out. Good luck with the project!
telling people they can get windows for “way below $1000” is outright dishonest when you know NOTHING about their situation or what they expect from new windows. It’s as stupid as saying “paying over $200,000 for a house is a ripoff”. Or “paying over $20k for a car is highway robbery”. It’s not professional, it’s not honest and it’s setting people up for frustration & disappointment.
I don’t know if that’s the case. Of course there are windows that cost more than $1000 but there are also plenty of options that cost less.
Anderson quoted us about 2000 per composite window. How does that sound? Where else should we look?
Sounds pretty typical for them, defininltey on the high side of replacement window prices. What’s your zip code? We may know someone to recommend in your area. Or, check this section for recommendations.
Andersen composite is 75% vinyl and 25% compressed sawdust. You are paying a premium for a vinyl window and sawdust. Ask to see what their windows are made of. I’ve installed them and you hit the frame with a hammer and it will break.
I’m not sure where you’re located but there’s nothing dishonest about that statement. Here we are almost 8 years after your post and, in my market, if you’re paying $1000 plus for windows you’re not a smart buyer. Some companies will try to get over $1000 for a single or double hung vinyl window (uPVC) with a good SHGC and U-Factor but they’re not selling many. You want a frame that’s NOT made from recycled vinyl, a good glass package with a SHGC of .20 or lower and a good DP rating. You should be able to accomplish this with installation for $650 to $900 per window depending on the size and if there are geometrically shaped windows (half rounds, eyebrows etc.). Grids and oriels should add no more than $100 per window combined. Tempered glass is an upcharge as well but usually only needed over a tub or if the glass of the window is less than 12″ from the floor.
I need to get the info on where to get these windows ASAP!! I know several manufacturers pricing and you can’t buy a window that’s better than decent for that. Then, company is needs profit, pay a salesman, installer, insurance, lights, and if you want a warranty then they better make enough money to survive light sales months.
I know business… That said, I’ve looked at buying impact windows for my winter home in Florida. NOT ONE UNDER 1800 straight from manufacturer…. So that’s non sense.
This sounds like an article from a company who sells poor quality windows. A window for $1k is in fact fair. To say a window for 1k or maybe even more is robbery is not only misinforming but flat out ridiculous! Here’s a few things to consider around that 1k cost…
-Do you have wood rot?
-Window Size
-Tempered glass (building code)
-Wraps or Stops
-Grids
-Color (this one can be a doozy)!!!
-Btw… who’s installing them and what material are they made of.
(If Your lucky, you’ll get the truth here. So be sure to ask question regarding this).
-Oh yea that reminds me… WARRANTY! If you get one, READ IT!!! Most Importantly the Exclusions.
-Oh yea speaking of warranty, that also reminds. Look into the company you are considering buying from. Do they change names or ownership every 10yrs or so??? If so, your lifetime warranty is actually a 10yr warranty. Are they a franchise? (warranty again)! Have they ever been in bankruptcy?
Ok, I think I’ve given you enough to consider. Good luck on your window journey!
Thanks for taking the time to write. You’ll see some of these comments were from several years ago. You’re right that prices are a little higher now.
Well you were right on with all the sales expectations. We both had to be there. Got a special and a manager’s special with in an hour plus the neighborhood special to get us to buy. We have a 30-year old home with 10 single pain metal windows. They started around 11,000 for their double-pane windows, then around 8,000 and finally a $5900 deal which did not sound bad. Got another really nice salesperson with Anderson and he came up with $6700 and the plus was triple-pane windows instead of double pain this month which was not bad either. But finally through a family connection we got a super information person, not salesperson with great double-pain, double strength, median grade vinyl windows with all the bells and whistles for $4700. Yeah for us! Plus 18 mos no interest. Full lifetime warranty no strings. All to fit our limited budget but getting the right windows for our house.
Thanks for posting. The window business can be a funny place. Glad you got it sorted out!
I received 3 quotes for 24 double pane, double hung, low e, argon gas filled, vinyl windows, a standard window. Window Universe and Window World both came in about the same around $11,500. Window Nation sent a quote that said $32,000! But, with manufacturer’s rebates, the final price was around 13,500, which was only good for a short time. The salesman said he couldn’t guarantee the price beyond the deadline due to the company changing it’s promotions regularly, which are televised often. The final price was at least ball park to the other companies but I wish WN would have just listed that from the beginning.
They are known for pricing gimmicks like that. One day it’s BUY 2 GET ONE FREE and the next day it’s manufacturer rebates. It’s always some reason that you need to buy today to get the super duper special savings.
I’m a big fan of the Window Universe option since I started the company way back in the day. It’s a higher quality product than a Window World franchise is allowed to offer, the service is top notch and you know the founder!
Unless these windows are going in a rental property it’s a bad idea… they are RECYCLED Vinyl. A lot of those windows will have gone bad in a few years. Mainly the ones catching all the sunlight! There’s more to be concerned with but the main thing is You WILL be buying those windows AGAIN!!
Just do it right the first time. You can always get a few GOOD windows at a time. Until your project is complete!
It sounds like you may have received some questionable info from your sales training. We’ve writing about scare tactics including recycled vinyl before. Your boss may not have giving you 100% accurate info.
How long have you been in the window business?
What company did u get your widows from
Brayn
Which company gave you a lifetime warranty ? Thanks
True Line Indpls..
Window Universe in Indianapolis will also give you a lifetime warranty from a much larger company and at a substantially better price. Check them out here.
Harold,
how do I get in touch with you? I am looking to do the same project. Email me through here. Thanks
Hi Stefan, there’s a contact link at the bottom of the page. I’ll send you an email right now.
I used Lowes, in La Quinta CA. Milgard windows with a life time warranty and glass breakages coverage.
Good Job!
See if it was renewal by Anderson then you really messed up! See I have renewal by Anderson and I’ve had them for 19 years. Yeah they were expensive but not only did my energy bill dramatically go down but I got what no other company had fiberex. Unlike vinyl it never warps, no seal failure, no condensation, and they’re not wood so no rotting. Fiberex is a composite of vinyl and wood. That means all the benefits of both without the problems of both. My windows also are custom made and came with a lifetime guarantee on all my windows. Why would you want plastic windows? You don’t live in a plastic home or sit on plastic furniture right? Yeah like I said pricey yes but they allowed me to do the front of my house first and the payments are affordable on any budget. Two years later I had the rest done and they paid for themselves in maybe 7 years. Also raised my home value by 8%.
Hi Jon, thanks for chiming in. You said in your other post that you work for Renewal by Andersen so that’s important to note. Last I saw you only got a 10 year warranty on your fibrex frames, but you say lifetime here. It would benefit you to be honest with potential customers who may be reading this.
Busted!
Ha, they’re usually pretty easy to bust…
Their warranty is only 20 years. It is possible this post may be from a Anderson rep or family member and is bogus.
What company gave you this good deal?
I’d take that deal who was it? Just had a whole day wasted with a sales guy who tried to pin me down to sign the same day. I ended up signing but cancelling next day!
Terrible sales tactics. If it’s a good company they won’t mind comparative shopping
Liked your post!! What was the company??
1) That super-low price had a hefty sum built in to cover the “no interest” loan. 2) “all the bells & whistles” are very cheap to do in the window business. The REAL expense is the strength & lifespan of the material. And a 1-year window looks a lot like a 75-year window on the surface. 3) The cheaper the selling price; the higher the profit margin–without exception. Next time READ the warranty FIRST, SEE a cut-through, KNOW both glass & unit U-values; and UNDERSTAND WHY the price was so low. I suspect your “bargan” windows will prove to be no bargain at all over the comming years. Good luck.
Can you please share he wi down company. RBA is pricing 42,000 for 17 replacement windows from basement to sliding and double hung. Energy efficient (argon gas I. Between the panes. 20 year warranty. I should say the gave me a 30% discount. Having my doubts. Please need help
What’s your zip code? I might be able to help with an option.
You got off cheap! I just got a quote for 10 windows for $58k!
Ha, I bet the kind salesman had a super special discount just for you since it was probably your lucky day. This can be a funny business.
I Michigan a “lifetime warranty” is 7.5 years, every product has an assigned lifespan and that is the lifetime warranty. I am sure all states do the same. So lifetime is not “your” lifetime, or the homes.
Hi Bob, this information is 100% false. Most nicer window warranties specifically say they cover the windows for as long as you own the house and most are transferable when you sell the house. If a window salesman told you that story about the 6.5 years you should question everything else they told you because they lied to you.
If you sell windows and your boss told you that you should know that he’s telling you to lie to people.
Where!? I paid just under $5000 at “Pace Windows and Doors”!
It’s been nothing but a nightmare! I’ve only been in three months last night it was 67° inside with my air conditioning and outside it was 80°, this was it 11 PM, we have had really really hot weather in NY 2021. These windows are fogging up, the cold air from inside is hitting the hot air from outside and fogging up right at the middle of the sash where the window is lock. They are telling me this is normal. No it’s not normal I only replaced the windows because they were leaking air in the winter. My replacement windows were far better 30 years old then these replacement windows.
I don’t know what to do I don’t know who to call. You’re just taking off their work at what they give you all the jibber jabber when they’re selling. They bring in a sample of a sash window show you how it seals, they don’t seal. At my other house we replaced 17 windows yeah it was a big house my house now as well we used “Hurd”
We installed them ourselves my husband was so great he’s passed away, Three of the windows were massive! They were triple pane with heat shield and that worked! We had direct afternoon sun coming in, the heat shield made it to the house was still cool. Well Hurd is out of business, those windows are still awesome my son has that house now! Yeah that was 25 years ago. What goes wrong that these manufacturers go downhill in quality so many years later. I’m so upset. I’m not Social Security I’ll be myself a hairdresser who made peanuts and paid a little Social Security $5000 was a ton Open money. I had to save and save and save for two years before I could have them installed. I don’t need to boo-hoo me but We have the Better Business Bureau who do I go to government level to fix this is the attorney general who ?
can somebody help me please
What kind of window was that??
Moved into a house built in ’65 and need to replace 21 double hung windows…new to the NW suburbs of Chicago, looked on Yelp and had two sales pitches so far. One offered Great Lakes Maxuus 7.6 triple pane for 13,880 and a smaller outfit with Kensington 300 at 11,400. From what I read about Kensington I don’t feel comfortable about their long term success. Got a flier from Pella but not sure if I want the hassle of anther sales call with a higher quote… Anyone have success with Great Lakes?
Wow I like what you said about that nothing changes daily. That is a tactic that for sure had me struggling. If there is a feeling of a time crunch its much easier to rationalize and accept higher prices.
Yep, that’s why they do it. Best advice is to slow down, take a breath and know that if a company pushes you too hard you can just cross them off the list. There are plenty of fish in the sea!
Im reading this while my first salesman is in his truck writing up my proposal… thank God I found your site. So far he’s pulling the “I’m an old very experienced man in construction honey, I’ll help you, a poor ignorant single mom, out” sales pitch… lol. He read me wrong, but I’ll play!
How’d it work out?
Renewarbyandersen, uses some of this technics
We have five windows that are 3′ x 5′, and less than two feet from the floor of the house. We’ve heard “your windows are bigger, so they’re more expensive” and it sounds reasonable. What should we watch out for in that kind of sales pitch, please?
This size doesn’t really affect the price too much. If they’re charging $10-$20 per window more, maybe that’s reasonable. We charge the same price for any sized window. It’s typically just used as an excuse to charge you more.
Who do you work for and are you anywhere near nj?
I don’t work for anyone other than my customers! You can find info about who we are all over the site. My company has an office in Philadelphia where we serve southern New Jersey. If you’re up north I can recommend someone I know. Just let me know how I can help out.
Hi, there! Do you have a recommendation for someone in Lower Bucks County? I’m overwhelmed with the options of window brands, types, and installers. Thanks.
Yes, we do. Check out this page.
Morris county here and looking for a reliable window installer…any suggestions?
Maybe, what’s your zip code? If I know someone great I’ll be happy to let you know!
Hi, I’m looking for someone in Columbus, Ohio. I saw Zen windows is recommended but they dont have great reviews.
I know the owner of Zen Windows in Columbus and I’d recommend touching base with them. Ask him if you have any questions and see what he says.
Hello WD:
I moved into a condo last year and noticed immediately that the traffic noise is intolerable. Three large rectangular windows plus two large “cathedral’ windows face a heavily traveled street (I should have paid more attention before I bought the place). Of course, window replacement companies say that new double-pain windows will significantly reduce the noise. But manufacturers of window “inserts” (glass or acrylic inserts that go inside the windows, made by companies like Indow Windows and Soundproof Windows) say new windows will not solve the problem. Have you heard any success with these window inserts, or can you recommend a new replacement window brand that will reduce noise?
We just installed a project that was along the George Washington Memorial Parkway in Alexandria, VA. It’s a busy road and the windows we put in made a HUGE difference.
This is a great example to point out that it’s not about a brand or about taking anyone’s word for it. Windows will have an STC rating that refers to how much sound will pass through the window. I’ve heard companies recommend triple pane windows for this, but they’re not actually all that effective.
Your best bet will be windows with laminated glass. They make a big difference and you can tell by looking at the STC ratings.
Had a meeting with Renewal by Andersen the other day in the Syracuse, NY area. Many of the “sales tactics” were used…both present, time management, etc. At the end of a 2 1/2 hour nightmare he quoted me over $30K for 16 windows; albeit installed and stained to match the interior trim. Then he added they have a “pool of marketing money” set aside to use however they want. So if they can out a sign in my yard I get $200 for every person who buys based in seeing that sign. How does that work: a) I live on a dead end street and b) I will trust them to ask if they saw the sign in my yard?
As an added feature my quote consists of a number on what is basically a rating of the product and presentation. Nowhere can you find one iota of what we will receive for $30K. I have subsequently emailed them and asked for an itemized breakdown of cost window by window, a copy of the warranty. and the options we chose. We will see what I get in return.
The best advice I can give is if you’re not comfortable now, you should keep looking. There are many companies that install great windows. The warranty on the renewal by andersen windows is not the strongest (despite their pitch) and there’s noting too remarkable about it.
Unless there is something pretty extraordinary about your project nearly $2,000 per window would give you a whole lot of options.
Be sure to let us know what they say. People ask us about Renewal by Andersen all the time and I’m sure the other readers will appreciate any information.
So the Business Mgr called me and I met with the Sales Mgr. I asked for an itemized quote for each window he said he would provide it and we agreed to him stopping by to hand deliver it.
Now the price for a full replacement was $22.5K and for Inserts was $19.4K. That’s an instant $10K savings.
In the interim I had Marvin provide a quote. They did what I asked and gave me a window by window cost for the window and a separate cost for the labor (local Marvin trained company). Had them quote the full replacement (Integrity windows) and the price is $17.2K. I think the decision is leaning to Marvin.
I just received a quote for three sunrise double hung double pane window, full replacement $3,200.00 installed. sounds high to me?
Might be a little high. A full replacement project does involve a lot of work and it’s often completely unnecessary. Is there are reason you were going down that road or is that just what they were selling?
Steve, if you’re willing to pay the 30k for 16 Windows, I’m in.and I am a contractor in wisconsin.please don’t do it.
What can you tell me about Storm Tight Windows? While the salesman pulled every trick you listed , we were impressed with the product, assuming his heat transfer tests were accurate, etc… They are relatively new to the Texas gulf coast area, but we live a bit further north so rather than promoting only wind strength, they are also promoting savings in utility costs exceeding that of ANY other brand. Couldn’t get a quote from the salesman because 1) we only wanted to replace a few west side windows versus all, and 2) we wouldn’t sign a contract immediately and receive all the discounts available to us (off the estimated $98k retail which represents 1/3). Anyone know how these windows compare?
I’m not familiar with them personally, but from looking at the website they look like a Florida company making vinyl impact windows. I didn’t see anything that looked particularly unique on their site. I assume if there was something truly special about them it would be plastered all over their site. What did the salesperson say made them better than any other vinyl impact or hurricane window?
For $98k either you have a TON of windows or they REALLY like their windows!
Oh…sorry…the 1/3 was assessed value of our home. (Haha…grandkid interruption.). I can’t imagine spend 1/3 of home value for new windows!
I recently had an estimate from Renewal by Andersen and it was such a horrible experience. We were entirely ignorant about windows a week ago, but have been doing a lot of research and have been learning things alone the way. I only wish I had known about this website first. As soon as the representative came to the house we made it clear that we were only interested in hearing options, learning about the work that would be done, and getting an estimate, nothing more. I made it clear that we were in the process of getting other estimates. Well he started with this hyper-aggressive sales pitch and that I would forgo a lifetime warranty “if I didn’t sign today”. He also immediately took 25% off the first estimate, which told me that the first number was bogus. It became this really weird, tense situation in our dining room. He then began to insult the idea that I was having a independent window/siding/roofing guy come out the next day. Insulting other professionals does not help your case. I was so angry by the time he left my house. I will not be hiring them. I just wanted an estimate on six casement windows and a patio door, that was all.
A friend recommend this 30 year old Company! I got a price quote in 10 minutes. Reasonably prices replacement windows. I am going to “LOOK” at their product today!
Richard A
What’s the problem with your site. I had almost completed my comment to one of your customers. Then Blam! the page went blank, no explanation. nothing.
I don’t know, I’m no Mark Zuckerberg. I did see your previous comment about Sears so I know that one posted. We do get a TON of spam so there’s a spam filter involved now too. If you have trouble you can always send me an email through the contact link at the bottom of every page.
Here is an example of a buy 2 get 1 free offer.
FYI, they presented an quote for a 37×36 and 37 x 25″ single humg windows for $777; Tropical blend virgin vinyl, white, non-impact, obcure glass, one tempered (in shower area), LowE 70xl, argon, Cam sweep locks, Soft warm edge spacers, half screen.
do you have an opinion on gulf coast windows and their composite series of composite vinyl thermal windows?
I can’t say that I’m too familiar with them. What stood out to you? Why would you consider them over another model?
Gulf Coast Windows came out and gave me a bid for 18 Windows. Bid came in at over 25k. Salesman offered some of the sales gimmicks and biggest thing was his false Statements on costs from other companies and constant put down of all the other window companies and their products. No way I would buy from them now.
Please recommend a firm in Cincinnati! Thank you!
Best window company in Cincinnati!
We’ve gotten several quotes for 12 large windows and a patio door. We’re concerned about sound, so we’ve investigated dual pane with dissimilar widths as well as laminated (even BOTH quoted by Home Depot with Simonton windows).
Needless to say we’re amazed at the price. Our lowest was about 9,000 from Window World and the highest 33,000 from Andersen (RBA, not even sound glass!). He of course gave us the “same night” discount to get it to 21,000. We still said no. We are at a loss as to what to really expect, though the other quotes were all about 10,000-13,000.
I have read quite a bit and yet have no simple answer on “bang for the buck”, and best features required in the Dallas/Ft Worth area for replacement windows (some single hung, and some sliding for a home built in the 60’s.
I am looking at vinyl, with the features required in my area. Could you suggest 2 or 3 brands and, or specific models that would suffice? I can look up prices from there.
Also…… what would be a reasonable installation price to expect? Thanks in advance.
Looking for horizontal sliders. Recommendations?
Do you have any information on MGM vinyl replacement windows manufactured in Hendersonville, Tennessee
Does $10,500 for 11 triple paned windows and 4 doubled paned windows including install sounds reasonable?
Have you received a quote through this program? You might be pleasantly surprised.
Had TWO quotes so far and they couldn’t be more different!!
Quote 1) STORM TIGHT WINDOWS (13 windows plus a sliding glass patio door) first price $34,000, second price (manager/show home special/ give us references/ let us post our sign out front) $24,475!! Almost fell for it but thankfully the financing didn’t work! Then they had the nerve to say, “give us $6,000 up front and we’ll do “in-house” financing for the rest”. Of course I said NO DEAL and sent them packing
Quote 2) WINDOW WORLD (Same amount of windows and sliding glass patio door) $7309.00 with a lifetime warranty and all the options we wanted on our windows! No high pressure sales pitch, no “let me call my manager” crap. No “let me put up my sign and give me references”! Just straight up and to the point salesmanship with a true “no obligation” quote! (We get our new windows in mid-September).
It’s a rapidly changing business and some old fashioned companies are going to be left behind.
I am looking for comments on Climate Solutions 8000 vinyl replacement windows . Liked the product I was shown but would like some reviews if possible.
From their website I would guess it’s a private label of another product, but can’t tell for sure. If you want more info ask them for the NFRC CPD# and we can look it up to see what it is.
Relatively new (few years old), relatively small company based out of Chicago. You probably won’t find many reviews given the short history and limited distribution area. As far as the product itself, looked fine. Nothing stands out much good or bad.
Could you please recommend a reputable window company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
There are so many gimmincks, so far I have received estimates from Home Depot, Window World and Thermo Twin. I am interested in triple pane replacement windows, so far the estimates have been 600-800 per window is this expensive? Also, should the life time warranty cover parts and labor w/o a service fee for coming out? Thanks
We have a great program in Pittsburgh. Check out this page. Fill out the form at the bottom to get a quote. Our customers there have been loving the results.
Yes the lifetime Window World warranty covers parts and labor as long as you own your home.
How can I get in touch with you? Looking to replace standard builder windows that are now soo drafty on a 2 story home built in 1992. I am petrified at the thought of getting beat!
ACRE Windows in Montgomeryville, PA uses these tactics along with high pressure ‘sign tonight!’. Terrible company.
I’ve had 2 Cleveland-area companies come out and provide quotes for 22 double-hung vinyl windows. I haven’t signed anything yet, as I want to make sure I’m not being taken here.
#1, Universal Windows Direct, which seems to re-brand the Polaris UniShield. When asked about full-frame vs. replacement, we were told “I always recommend replacement, because full frame is hard for my installers, and more expensive for you”. He mentioned a flat charge of $250 per window for full-frame if we really needed it. Their pricing scheme had some huge price changes in each category. The 30-day price quote was $28k, but if I signed within those 30 days they’d let me “split” the install up over 2 years. Then came the Home Show discount which dropped me to $19k, a huge change for simply spending 3 minutes with them at the show. The “tonight only” discount dropped it to $16k.
#2 “New” Stanek, owned by Great Day Improvements, actually suggested full-frame , and came in with a similarly original price of $30k. The home show discount dropped it to $27k, and a “next 5 days only” price of $26k.
I hope you didn’t buy either of those options yet. The highest rated window company in Cleveland is right here and you’re going to LOVE the difference. Let me know how it goes!
My question is about the payment schedule in the contract. I would appreciate your thoughts.
Deposit 10% at contract signing – ok, that’s fine. in CA a contractor cannot require a down payment of more than 10% or $1000
40% due upon measurement of windows – I don’t get this one.
40% due at delivery of windows
10% upon completion
Thanks
Seems like a lot of work to me. We don’t have time to charge people 4 times in our company. We just have too much else to do. It may be a sign that they really need your money to fund their business or it could mean that they have a lot of people try to cancel their orders. Don’t know.
Did you ask them why they take the time to charge you 4 times?
A comment that I just got from a sales rep. was, “It’s almost the end of the month. If you could, I’d appreciate your business by then. Everyone needs to make a quota”.
I almost fell off of my chair!! SERIOUSLY??!! No thank you Excel Windows!
I had a Champion window salesman this week use pressure tactics to close a deal when done with his 4 hour presentation. When I refused to budge, he said “I need to contact my boss since you will not agree to close our offer”. It reminded me of buying a car when the sales staff “Team Tags” you by going to the sales mgr. All it did was convince me I’m going to find a different company to install our windows.
I would appreciate the name of a good window company in the Indianapolis area. I was just quoted 33k for 17 windows and a patio door. It just seems a bit excessive.
Call my friends at Window Universe. You can find their info here. They’re on W 79th St and they serve the whole Indianapolis area. Ask for an appointment with Jeff or Brooke and I’m sure they’ll be able to help out. Let me know how it goes.
I have received quotes from Pella, Feldco, and Window World and have looked at available products at Lowe’s, Menard’s, and Home Depot to replace the original standard 6′ sliding patio door in my 52 year old home. Given the wide range of quotes I have received and the varying quality of the products being offered, I am leaning toward Window World. I am curious as to whether the $200 SolarZone Plus upgrade is actually required in Illinois (as the salesman stated) or if this is just a way to increase the total amount of the sale. Your thoughts? Thank you for your help.
I don’t know what door model they’re proposing so I can’t say what’s required. Most people at least get something that is Energy Star rated and some localities do require it. Big brother is everywhere. To find out ask him for the efficiency ratings and do a goole search to see what the requirements are for your area.
I let myself fall victim to that “special deal – call the manager” play then cancelled the check the next morning. Company was Window Concepts in Arlington Heights, IL. The guy even told me they had installed windows all over my development and were approved vendors with the HOA so didn’t have to follow the normal approval process. Neither was true. My real mistake was in researching the features I wanted but not the specific manufacturer or the vendor.
This site has saved me thousands of dollars. Thank God I found it!
Hi Barbara, sorry to hear about the trouble, glad we could help out!
I live in the Philadelphia, PA suburbs & needing to buy replacement windows for my condominium governed townhouse. It’s a 7 window plus 1 complete bay window replacement. I’ve had three salesmen quotes so far with the last one being the most affordable. (the first which was the highest used the 1 year quote, special discount now, plus the coupon offer scam tactic for immediate agreement) I was about ready to re-contact the last company to go ahead with the deal. Their prices were almost identical with what a neighbor paid per/window 5-6 years ago & might be offering a better quality product, the Insul-Tec 500. I have a concern about their OKNA windows after reading your site about their law suit & potential viability of their company as to their warranties. It appears by the date of your review of them that the law suit took place a couple years ago. Do you have any update or info as to whether the company has improved their reputation & long-term viability, quality of their product, etc. ?
Also, is a 10-week wait for installation a reasonable amount of time for a company to make?
I’ve since met the founders of Okna windows and I think they’re a fine company. You just need to be sure that you’re comfortable. We offer their products in some of our stores.
I can help out with a different product in the Philadelphia area if you’d like. Find our recommended companies here.
Has anyone heard of or used Milwaukee Windows? They use Lang Exterior’s windows and I was quoted a fantastic price & install time with no pressure, but am naturally skeptical of something being too good to be true.
I haven’t heard of them, but I do know a great company in Milwaukee if you’re interested in a second opinion. You can find our list of the best companies around on this page.
I really liked the renewal by Anderson windows their product looks solid but heir price is unacceptable. Are there other companies that install renewal by Anderson windows? Or what company compares ?
Only the Renewal franchisees install the Renewal windows, but you can find many companies that install Andersen windows. Do you like the wood look of the windows?
So I’m interested in knowing how I would determine if I do in fact need to replace my windows…I have 13 year old builder-grade windows with no condensation or fog but when the salesperson was here, he clicked an infrared thermometer on my wall then on my window and saw a 5 degree drop in temperature. So is that not normal? I’ve been looking around and it seemed so convincing I’m now shopping for $10,000 replacement windows.
Hi Joe, I sent you an email, but this seemed like a question many people would have so I’ll answer it here too. Typically people buy new windows for the look, the operation or the efficiency. We see many old windows that don’t look so hot, don’t work so well or don’t offer much efficiency. If your windows fall into one or all of these camps it’s probably a good idea to replace them.
The thermometer is typically more of a gimmick than an indicator of anything. When you’re walking around your house on a very cold or very hot day you probably can get a pretty good idea for how efficient your current windows are. If the house is comfortable, the utility bills are low and the old windows work ok then you may not need to do anything.
Once I was in a customers house and he had 2 pieces of dowel rod by each window, one was short and one was longer. I asked him what they were for and he said the short one was for when he wanted to open the window a little and the long one was for when he wanted to open the window a lot. That guy needed new windows.
Drop me a line if there is anything else I can do to help out!
Hi. Any recommendations in the Virginia Beach area?
Thanks
Yes! We have a great option for new windows in the Virginia Beach area. find our listings of great window companies all over the country here.
FYI – I’ve been a manufacturer and also had roommates in college that were in sales. In my opinion, only an arrogant dbag would try to act like a big shot to post the sales strategies of others as a dig and not even know the other side of the equation. For example, my roommate was paid a commission so he drove all over town to sell products and if both husband and wife weren’t there, they never bought because they couldn’t make a decision. he would have to go back another few times for free, wasting gas money but more importantly his time. Also, in manufacturing sales training, which all of our management team had to take, we are shown that if someone doesn’t buy from you now, the chance of selling later goes down by over 70%. Also, decisions are hard to make. If our sales person who sold our furnace wasn’t a little pushy, which he was, we probably wouldn’t have made a decision and would have been forced to later when it completely broke down. Just my opinion but it seems like you are a know-it-all who really doesn’t know a whole lot. Don’t know if that makes you worth reading for all the poor saps that listen to you.
Thanks for the feedback. Sounds like we might not agree on everything. I think it’s important for the salesperson to remember that the customer is the one paying the bill. If you need to go back there tomorrow then go back tomorrow. Lots of products used to be sold by pushy in-home salespeople. Not too many are anymore. The salesman will always think he’s doing it the right way (otherwise he’d quit), but that doesn’t mean it’s true.
The gentleman may be partially right in terms of the chance of making a sale going down 70%. However, In making a large investment, I need to know the facts by doing research on the windows, the company, the warranty. I want to compare this info to other companies.
This is quite a chunk of change that I do not want to make a hasty decision on. I do not care that he has to spend an extra 5 bucks in gas to come back. I’ve been up front with all the salesman that has come to my home when asked, my wife will NOT be present. I am capable of giving her the information she needs. She will only sit there with a deer in the headlights look and ask me what I think, as all this U-factor, SHGC is a Greek to her. You might as well speak in a different language. She manages in running the house and I handle repairs. WE manage the expenses.
A side note to this is, I had an appointment with a company. They called to confirm said appointment and when asked if she would be there, he tried to reschedule for a time that would suit her. I told him that she would not be there. He said “then I cannot help you”!!
The next day, his superior called and tried to set up an appointment. I told him it was too late cause apparently they did not want my business.
As far as his furnace explanation, My wife has a coworker who was in the middle of a major kitchen remodel when her furnace went out. the repairman/salesman said she needed a new system to the tune of $5000-6000. She was devastated. I told her to get a second opinion. This HVAC contractor was able to fix her furnace for $200. She just saved $5000 by not going with the pushy salesman.
The take: Get more than one quote. If you loose the “deal” then I guess it was never meant to be.
It’s right that he may sell a lower percentage of his meetings if both spouses aren’t there. He forgets that the reason he might sell less is because they find a better value elsewhere. It’s not bad for the customer if they find a better value elsewhere. It’s only bad for the salesman. The easier solution for the salesman is to offer a better value and then more people will buy and you don’t need to be pushy to get an order.
Sadly, most of the salespeople you’ll see writing here aren’t in charge so they just need to do what their boss tells them to do and their boss is likely doing things the way they’ve always been done. That’s why so many window companies seem to be so old fashioned.
There are plenty of great companies out there, and also plenty of horrible companies.
This is a great article. Even the good guys can get buried by the competitors and have to play the game to a point. At the end of the day, find a service provider with a low pressure sales technique AND a solid business model. Going with the gimmicks can cost you big in the long run.
Any recommendations for wood window replacement in Dayton, OH?
Hi Trey, I don’t know anyone who could help with a wood window project in Dayton. Maybe someone else will chime in. My company offers great vinyl windows in Dayton, but only vinyl. Why are you leaning towards wood?
What would you say about Sunrise vs Vanguard windows?
Need 26 double-hung windows installed, and got quotes in the $19,000 (Sunrise) to $21,000 (Vanguard) range.
I think they’re perfectly fine windows. How did they explain why the Sunrise Vanguard was worth $2000 more than the Sunrise window?
The downside to Sunrise windows is that their dealers sometimes charge and arm and a leg for them. They’re fine windows, but there’s a point at which I don’t think they’re worth the money some local dealers try to charge. You’re over $800 per window for the Sunrise Vanguard. There could be enough in your project to justify the cost, but maybe there isn’t.
we met with a rep last night that wants to give us their promotional deal in exchange for their sign in our yard for 30 days.
the deal is, they cover install and labor, take away of old windows and we also receive 30% off each window.
The rep said they only do 2-3 homes in each city for the promotion so it’s a first come first serve deal. They end goal is to have others in the neighborhood use them. Thoughts?
Who do you recommend in Cape Coral/Fort Myers Florida?
Hi Jennifer, we don’t have a company to recommend in that area. If you find a great one let us know!
It’s really interesting to see the different sales tactics for windows. I would imagine that high-quality windows are in high demand. My husband and I are currently looking for replacement windows to make our house more energy efficient.
Clearwater Florida Resident
I recently got a quote from a company that’s based out of the northeast Power Home Remodeling. I have 20 windows that are all sliders and 2 sets of triple sliders that slide all the way across and a regular sider (8panels Total)
These are their Winforce model (Hurricane Impact) Windows are Design Pressure +/-50, U-Factor .30, Solar Heat Gain.19, Visible Transmittance .44 and air leakage .3
Sliders have a design pressure of +/-70, U-factor.37, Solar Heat Gain .19 Visible Transmittance .41 Air Leakage. 3.
The price came out to $38,000
I thought that was pretty decent compared to another company called Weather Tite Windows and they wanted 45k cash and 51k financed! My neighbor down the street paid $59k and we have the same house.
Anyone heard of Power Home Remodeling? I believe they use Northeast Building Products to make their windows. Nobody else gets these windows they are only for Power Home Remodeling.
Thanks!
Did you end up using Power? We met with them today and liked the price and what they showed us with the windows. I’d love any local feedback! Thanks!
Hi Terry….
Yes we did end up going with Power Home Remodeling. We absolutely loved the installation of the windows and the crew that installed them. We have had the windows for about 18 month now. Our electric bill has gone down and things are a lot quieter as well. If you have any issues they take care of them asap. The only issues I ran into were from the factory. I suggest that you look over all of your windows before you sign off. I had a couple of scratches in our and they ordered all new replacements. Once they came in and I approved then we signed off on the job.
So glad I found this site!
We are in Denver, CO. Met with the Power Rep at a pre-COVID home remodel show a couple of years ago. Liked the initial vibes, but didn’t pursue at the time. They were recently canvassing the neighborhood after doing work on another home in our area. They still had our name in their system as potentially interested. Our appointment was good, informative and a typical pitch. As an initial test, we are doing 4 windows on west facing side of our building. They noted some water damage and window seal leakage on 25+ year old builder grade windows.
We are in a townhome community and the rep was quick to show the contact info they use to get required HOA permission. As Board President for my community, this was a test to see their response. We had a separate owner use Anderson – results were nice, but we had to stop their install until Anderson furnished the required paperwork. The rep was not pleased. I should add that their cost was more than double for similar work on my unit – although they added a slider – replacing a French Door. I’ve done my due diligence on Power and they seem reputable – tho relatively new to the Colorado area.
My question at this point is – in discussing with the other homeowner, the Anderson people noted that when they were to later refinance their home, be sure to note the Anderson replacements windows otherwise they would take a reduction on the value of the home.
For re-fi’s – are providing the specs provided for the windows sufficient to keep the re-sale value high? Or is this just another sales tactic? Or is there an issue with home resale values for non-Anderson windows?
I would say there’s no way in the world that story is true. The bank doesn’t care one bit about the brand of windows you purchased when you refinance a house. I do love hearing about the stories that the door to door sales type companies are telling people so I do thank you for mentioning it. That’s a good one.
When you refinance a house the bank will not ask you anything about the windows. You don’t need to provide anything and they won’t care.
The Andersen windows are so expensive that you might need to refinance your house to pay for them, but other than that this is as silly of a sales line as I’ve ever heard.
We do know a great company to recommend in the area and I think you might like what they have to offer compared to Andersen or Power. You can find them here. The Power Windows salespeople have also been known for some creative storytelling so it might be worth hearing from someone else.
When you said that some salesmen can be worse than others I did agree but some can come out like a diamond in the rough. I found a screaming deal on new window inserts for my home that was actually really nice quality for what I paid. Sometimes salesmen can just be pushing really good products.
There are absolutely tons of great people in this business. I don’t mean to imply that everyone is bad. Glad you had a great experience.
What company would you recommend in Las Vegas?
Unfortunately I don’t know a great window company to recommend in Las Vegas. If you find one let me know. I’m sure there are plenty of other people looking too.
There’s one more tactic you haven’t discussed: Refusal to show an itemized quote. Some companies (Renewal is one example) have a fairly slick iPad-based system for managing the sales process, but in the end, if you ask to get the quote sent to you, only get the ’30 day’ price (or whatever it is with discounts you’re eligible for), but with NO QUOTE PER WINDOW.
Reputable companies have no problem showing you how they priced your quote – what the costs are per window (for the various sizes you may be ordering), including options (divided lites, screens, etc.), along with other fees like delivery or installation.
This isn’t unique to the window industry (flooring is another notable example), but it’s a sign that the company doesn’t want you walking away with the data you need to make an informed decision
Hi Tim, that’s a great suggestion and you’re completely right. A lot of those high priced window companies refuse to itemize their pricing and that’s always seemed suspect to me too. I’ll add that to the list.
Nice Post.
Thanks!
Ever heard of SolarFlect glass?
Not specifically, but it’s not at all uncommon for window companies to make up names for different glass types. Which company was offering it? If you as them what it’s really called either they’ll tell you or you should probably cross them off the list.
You can also look at the efficiency ratings to see what it’s really doing for you. If you post the ratings here we can offer some input.
Would greatly appreciate insight into “Custom Exterior Trim” on a Window World estimate.
They have it listed under ‘miscellaneous’ on their estimate form.
I have aluminum windows, brick exterior. looking at the openings, if the window is sized/ordered correctly, I fail to understand what is needed at $80 per window as ‘trim’. The new windows (4000 Series) are substantially deeper than the super thin single pane alum framed junk that is coming out, and I am not wanting anything additional$$$ for cosmetic reasons. Anyone know, first hand, whether this $80 per window ‘trim’ is a must-have? or is a pressure sales upsell?
You’d want to ask them. Historically they used to advertise very cheap prices and then look for any way they can to raise the price when they get to your house. It may just be a way to raise the price. What did the salesperson say when you asked them that that is?
Thanks for posting this blog. I read the whole blog and I learned a lot from this blog. It is important to
choose the best quality and a affordable glass service for your window upgrade at home. I hope you post
more blog tips for us.
Thanks for posting this blog. I read the whole blog and I learned a lot from this blog. It is important to choose the best quality and affordable glass service for your window upgrade at home. I hope you post more blog tips for us.
What company would you suggest, for 20613=Brandine, Md?
Looking for replacement of 65 year old windows. Is a lead test required?
That would be “Brandywine”, Md……… can’t type = sorry
No worries, I see my own typos on here all the time. I’d suggest Window Universe, the best company in the DC and Baltimore area. Check this section for recommendations for local window companies all over the country.
Awesome article! You really put forward all the sales techniques majorly a sales person might use. I specifically liked the The husband and wife MUST both be present. Just help me with this – how much cost should I incur when I am replacing 12 double sided size casement windows?
Hi Daryl, glad you’ve enjoyed the info. There are a lot of factors that can go into the pricing. Send over some info on any quotes you’ve received and we’ll be happy to help out.
I recently received a quote for Pella lifestyle aluminum/wood double hung windows for my home. The salesperson suggested using these windows instead of normal pocket replacement windows. They would be replacing the frames on my existing windows and installing the new lifestyle windows without removing siding, brick, or drywall. Is this possible??
Any thoughts on single-hung windows vs. double-hung? There’s a company called NT Windows from the Dallas area I’m considering using and the sales rep mentioned single-hung. I have 2 patio doors from NT and have been happy with them. Thanks.
Hi Patrice, I tend to recommend double hung. For the relatively small price difference you get added functionality. We do offer single hung and some people pick them to save a little. That’s totally fine too. Not a huge difference. If you’re in Dallas or Austin we’d be happy to get you a quote from my company. We tend to offer a solution that I think is a little nicer. If you’d like an online quote with no pushy salesperson you can find one here.
Thanks for explaining how nothing changes daily in the window replacement business. I need to get some new windows but I don’t want to spend a ton of money. I’ll look into getting some this weekend but I’ll be sure to find a place that doesn’t claim the deal changed daily.
Favorite by the scams around DC is that only a manager can authorize a 30 per or more cent discount and only today.
This blog helped a lot – this is my first time replacing windows/hiring workers – I spent 2.5 hours (!!) with Andersen. The windows look great but I really didn’t care for the length nor the pushiness experienced when I said I was getting other quotes “Why would you when you could save 1000$ if you sign now and after what I showed you?” (Other warranties and corners of other material windows)…sorry 21k for 7 standard windows and one picture – I’m not doing my homework if I don’t shop around nor will I be pressured to commit to that much immediately..left a very bad taste in my mouth
Just last night had a salesperson from K-designers in our dining room. He arrived at 6pm, didn’t leave until 10:15pm. Used the husband and wife must be there tactic, the model home tactic (got us to agree to do 60 days of free advertising for them!), buy 5 get one free, and the RIGHT NOW “discount”.
We had just started our search for windows. This is the first company we talked to, didn’t know what we were getting into. Signed to buy 12 America’s Dream windows for $25k. He even threw in a 8 day vacation package! How scammy. I think we partly just signed to get him to leave., it was late and we were exhausted.
We will be canceling the transaction today, having learned a lot – none of it about windows, sadly. Thanks for the information on your site!
Thanks for sharing your experience. It certainly can be enough to wear you out. I think anytime a free vacation package is involved in a home improvement project you can be sure you’re not getting a very good deal!
Yikes! The more I read here the worse I feel… Got sucked in by a smooth Renewal by Andersen guy just the other day (despite my wife’s protests!), and “bought” 8 double-hung 20yr. windows for roughly $2,000 a piece (one is a picture)! Are there any Reputable window companies in the Florence, SC 29501 area? I’m tired of getting taken in by vacuum cleaner salesmen and now window vendors… Oh, by the way – we can’t really afford either..! Help.
If you’re not happy with your order you can cancel it within 3 days so don’t delay.
One more question: I purchased Universal Windows Direct Unishield (R) Premium in Phoenix and dealt with the Las Vegas office. The sales person indicated they were triple pane and the website of UWD and its locations and as an example it’s Waco Authorized reseller advertise this UWD/UP as triple pane. The company I bought from sold them as Unishield (R) Premium but they are double pane allegedly as a “glass choice” by the customer which is not on the contract and there was no EPA work (our house was built in 1951). Two of the windows were not installed and I’m getting no feedback from the window company on how they will resolve. I discovered a label that was identified as another company’s window, not Universal. Do you know anything about this company or whether some of a company’s dealers can represent a product is double paned when it is triple pane at almost every other location? Thank you for your wisdom.
Most windows are custom made so there are usually many options to choose from. If it doesn’t say triple pane on your order then you probably got double pane.
Unfortunately terms like Unishield Premium are just made up brand names so they can sort of mean whatever the salesman wants them to mean. If they’re telling you that refers to the window model and not to the glass package you’d have a hard time disputing that.
If you want you can send over a picture of the sticker you found and your contract and we can see if we know what it is.
Need some help, 13 double hung windows of which 5 are “floor to Ceiling” @ 74″ tall. Do these need to have tempered glass on the bottom? I’ve gotten both yes & no along with different prices too. I also have had 5 different quotes and now am truly confused with where to go & who to believe. I tried to get a quote from Window Universe but they don’t service my area. Renewal by Andersen wants to quote but I have wood Andersen windows that I’m not a fan of but they are old.
I am sending the contract and the labels I found. The warranty reviewed was “True Life Warranty” which only applies to Unishied manufactured by Polaris. Alside, whom I finally discovered made the entire window, and does not have a true 30 year unlimited warranty and Alside does not warrant at all if windows are improperly installed which they were. I am sorry I am now just seeing your answer, but an email is coming with the 411 I hope you can assist me with.
Hi Robin, I’ll keep an eye out for that email. It’s true that Alside vs Polaris warranties are different. Both do offer lifetime warranties. If the problem stems from an installation issue you’d need to address that with the installer rather than the manufacturer. That’s the case regardless of who the manufacturer is.
I am looking to get pricing on 20 replacement windows ( I guess it is considered new construction as they will have to remove the vinyl siding and replace from the outside?) for my 1 family colonial near Manchester NH. I have had 4 companies come in and give me pricing. But I am finding it is all over the place. Nothing is close. Each of them is using a different window manufacturer. I got into an argument with one sales person when he told me a discount (which he couldn’t explain the calculation), was void once he walked out. I simply asked if I had time to get other quotes and if I liked his window and price better, would I be able to call in a week and get the same price. Naturally, he said no. That didn’t make sense to me.
The windows were the Okna Insul-tek 500, Anderson Renewal, Harvey Classic and Pro-via. I asked for all white casings, vinyl, double pane, double hung, argon gas. I am expecting a price on the Okna today. Also, so far, the sales persons have all said the windows are all double lifetime warranties. The company offering Harvey Classic has come in at 20k, the company offering Pro-via is at 28k. Something seems fishy that the pricing is so far apart like that. I don’t know the pricing on the Okna yet but comparing everything (feature wise) and trying to sift through some of the stuff they are telling me is difficult.
Hi Richard, it certainly can be a frustrating process. Why are you wanting them to remove the siding to install the new windows? That’s not the most common way to do it and will certainly be adding to the cost.
I’m here in Memphis, TN. We’ve had Renewal by Andersen out and their initial quote was $72,ooo for 24 double hung windows! They dropped the price to $51,000 if we’d sign up the same day as the quote. I’m looking for a moderately priced replacement window as we only plan on being in the home for 3-5 years. Any thoughts?
I put out a job qoute request on Angi (Angi’s List) and got a reply from Window Depot of Milwaukee. They state they only did virtual quote due to the pandemic and scheduled a time to meet. They asked me to supply a few pictures before hand for review. The day came and I was invited to a Skype-like video call. The salesman shared his screen and had what looked like a power point slide qued up, as I could see many pages on the left side of the screen. He suggested instead of reviewing each of the 200+ pages I could watch a short video. I chose that option. About 20 seconds into the video the sound was lost. I tried to use a chat feature to inform him there was no sound, but he did not respond until the video was over. He said he was sorry, but did not let me watch it again or explain the pages he had on the left side of screen. Instead he joked about new technology and when into getting the dimensions of the windows I wanted a quote for. After some claims about what wonderful windows he was going to sell me, he danced around specific window ratings and never told me who manufactured the windows he was quoting, we finally got to the prices. Then he acted surprised when the program he was using to calculate prices malfunctioned and he told me a price of $25K for 4 windows. He again tried to blame this on technology or a updated program. Then he seemed to re-enter the window data and came up with a quote of $19K which he was happy with. He then went into a speech about how he could offer a 5% discount now, then when I did not agree, he offered another 10% discount. Leaving the final price around $17K. I told him I would be getting other quotes and we ended the call. The next day a different person called from the same company and offered to quote me some cheaper windows if I was not happy with the original quote. I declined and have not spoke to them since.
Hi Bob, thanks for sharing your experience. It sounds like some companies are still using the old fashioned pricing gimmicks even without the old fashioned in-home salesman. This is defininltey a funny business.
I ask a window company that gave me a quote if I could watch their guys put in a windows before I made a decision on their bid? They said no because of insurance. Then the salesperson said she would check with the boss to see if they could take some pictures to show me what the process was like. The owner called me back that night and basically told me I was being unreasonable because they had a lifetime guarantee on the windows. Was I being unreasonable to ask for some pictures of the installation process?
Hi Tim, that seems like a relatively common thing to ask about. I know we don’t usually have one customer go to another installation, but there’s certainly no insurance related reason that would be any issue.
If they’re not able to explain the installation process to your satisfaction just look elsewhere. There are plenty of fish in the sea when it comes to replacement window companies.
Are there specific codes for having to use tempered glass in stead of annealed glass?
Hi Carlos, yes there are. It comes from the international building code so it’s basically the same rules everywhere. It looks like I haven’t written a post about that which is a little surprising. I’ll do that soon. Common situations where tempered glass is required are when the window is near a door, near the floor or near a pool or shower area. The idea is to improve safety so it’s areas where someone might fall into a window. You can still break tempered glass but it breaks into small pieces, like the side windows of a car, rather than big shards that could seriously hurt someone.