Window Manufacturers

As you're collecting estimates for your replacement window project, remember to take a close look at the window manufacturer.  It's relitively unusual for a window installation company to produce a window (Example: Home Depot will install your windows but they don't produce a window.  When considering Home Depot for your work, it would be wise to also do some research on "Simonton Windows").  Ask your sales rep specifically, "who makes this window?".

Here is the danger: 
Some installation companies buy extremely low-grade windows and rename them (Example:  Joe Window Company sells "Joes Windows".  What you don't know is that Joe Window Company bought that window from a company that's going out of business).  This prevent the consumer from discovering the poor reputation of the window itself and allows the installation company an opportunity for huge profits.  Remember though, if the true manufacturer of the window goes out of business, your warranty goes out of business with them.

Our Advice:Until the economy turns around, be careful with smaller window manufacturers.  For the sake of your warranty, it's important to stick with well established (usually national) manufacturers.  However, there are (of course) exceptions.  Check the BBB and look at previous projects.