HouseWindows

House Window Manufacturers

House window manufacturers produce many of the same products, but the prices and quality can be drastically different. Thoroughly researching the craftsmanship, customer service and prices of new house windows can prevent you from spending hundreds or thousands on inferior products. Don't rely on the well-known brand names. While some manufacturers have rightfully built great reputations, others simply use effective marketing to sell a product for more than it's worth.

Rating House Windows

All house window manufacturers should label their products with performance evaluations and provide home window photos. These numbers generally measure the same things, so comparing the numbers should give you an accurate measure of how well one window performs against another. The labels are often produced by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), a neutral non-profit organization that provides unbiased energy performance ratings.

The NFRC label includes ratings on four dimensions: U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient, visible transmittance and air leakage. U-factor measures how much heat is lost through the windows and frame. Choose the windows with the lowest U-factor you can afford. Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) measures how much solar heat comes through the window. In most climates, a low SHGC is preferable to keep the house cool in summer, but in very cold climates, a high SHGC can help heat the house naturally so you use less energy.

The NFRC label also measures visible transmittance (VT), how much light comes through the window. A high VT gives more natural daylight, but too high can cause a glare. Air leakage is an optional rating that manufacturers can choose to omit; it measures how much air comes in through the window and how much leaks out. High air leakage can be detrimental to heating and cooling costs, so look for a low number. House window manufacturers can also choose to include a condensation resistance rating: the higher the number, the better a window can resist condensation, which also improves visibility and prevents frame rot.

Some house window manufacturers might include their own ratings on these dimensions rather than the NFRC label. These are not always accurate measures, though. The NFRC label measures the entire integrated glass unit, including the frame, seal, glazing and insulating gas. Other labels may only measure the glass itself, which will change the measure of window performance.

The NFRC label is the best measure of a product's performance. House window manufacturers make all sorts of claims about performance, but these are not always effectively regulated. Advertising fluff is hard to discern from real facts, but measures by a trusted non-profit entity provide you with hard data about house window manufacturers.

House window manufacturers who include the NFRC rating system on their products have already made a commitment to quality and trustworthiness. These companies' products may differ greatly, but they have taken the initiative to be open about product performance. Look for the best performance ratings you can find, and stick with NFRC-rated manufacturers.

Customer Service

When you find the product that best suits your needs, you should research the manufacturer to make sure you are getting the best customer service. Brands that have been around for many years are sometimes your best options, but that isn't always the case. If the windows come with a lifetime warranty, it is wise to choose a long-standing brand. Lifetime guarantees are useless if the company goes under in a few years. Established brands have shown that they have staying power, and while you can never predict the future, you can minimize risk by choosing secure manufacturers.

On the other hand, brand name recognition does not always connote quality. Good marketing schemes can keep companies with inferior products afloat for years. Do some research on customer evaluations of products and services, and not just from their company website. Look at message forums and unbiased sources like "Consumer Reports" as well. Another thing to consider is that all manufacturers were new at some point; a young brand could become a well-known name in a few years, especially if it makes a great product.

Some house window manufacturers work through dealers to provide installation when they sell you windows. "Installation included" doesn't necessarily mean free installation. This service generally accounts for a price mark-up, so consider that when comparing prices between brands. It may be less expensive to buy the windows and have them installed by an independent contractor, but that could negate your warranty. Ultimately, do plenty of research when making price comparisons and setting up installation service.

Shopping for house windows can be a daunting task. With so many house window manufacturers out there, you have many choices. Arm yourself with information to choose the best product and service, and don't fall for the hype. All manufacturers are not created equal, but smart consumers can make the right decision for their house and budget.