Window replacements are not cheap. And they should not feel a gamble. Yet homeowners fall everywhere for deals that sound dreamy, but change in adequate nightmares.
In episode two of Stay glassyDuncan and Maria break down the five biggest mistakes that people make when buying windows. From sketchy sales tactics to ignoring the small print at the installation, it is clear: a bad choice can take you thousands or worse, years of regret.
Here is how you can prevent you from ending up on the wrong side of the glass.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fVeexk8GW4
Error #1: fall for the deal “too good to be true”
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“If you see an advertisement and it says ‘whole house special $ 49.95’, we always see it a lot … it’s just a bit stupid.”
This is almost too easy to fall for. A flashy advertisement, a low price and the promise of a full makeover in the window, all for less than dinner for four in a decent restaurant. But as Duncan indicates, how many houses actually have four windows and one door?
Here is the trick: companies use Ultra-Lage prices to (literally) go into the door and then to remedy the actual costs once they have locked your interest. And if that wasn’t enough, there is the secret financing trap.
“Four years of free financing? That has incredible costs,” he warns. “The company that offers that their prices are blowing up to cover the costs. You will pay way too much.”
What to do instead:
- Be skeptical about unrealistic low offers.
- Ask for specified quotes and compare apples with apples.
- Watch out for long -term financing gimmicks. Someone pays for it, and it is probably you.
Error #2: ignore energy -efficiency
“If you still live with windows with one window in 2025, you simply waste energy.”
Energy efficiency is not a fashion word. It’s a Bill-Saver. In South California, where temperatures and UV levels can become intense, your windows are not just for appearance, they are front line insulation.
Double windows with low-e (low emissiveness) coatings and a title 24-energy package are more than enough for the region. Triple panem? “Probably overkill for South California.”
What is wild is that many homeowners don’t even ask about this, or even worse, they pay for functions that they don’t need because a seller said: “More glass is better.”
What to do instead:
- If you are in a milder climate such as Socal, choose dual-windows with low-e coatings and argon gas fillings.
- Avoid Triple-Pane unless you are in freezing climates (think: Wisconsin, not San Diego).
- Give a priority to UV protection and heat resistance for your local environment.
Error #3: View of the installation quality
“You can have installed a really good quality window poorly, and you don’t get what you expected.”
This is perhaps the most critical point in the episode. A great product is useless in the hands of a bad installation program. Unfortunately, a poor installation is unbridled, usually from companies that cut corners to win bids.
Duncan does not cut words: “Having a good installation is crucial. Quality cenation, expandable foam, trim and installers who have been trained and know what they are talking about.”
Too often homeowners concentrate on the brand of the window, not on the hands that install it. That is the same as buying a luxury car and having a teenager exchange the engine.
What to do instead:
- Choose a company that is known for installers, not just products.
- Ask who the installation, their certifications and what materials they use.
- Do not go with the cheapest offer unless you like the smell of regret.
Error #4: Do not match the window with the environment
“Buy a window that is built for your environment.”
This one is secretly. Many buyers assume that all windows are equal, but the location is important, a lot. Buying a window designed for freezing Chicago Winters is complete overkill in Sunny Socal.
If you live somewhere mildly, you don’t need extreme insulation. But you do need UV protection, quality seals and the right frame materials (think of vinyl or fiber optic). This is not just about comfort, it is about lifetime and performance.
What to do instead:
- Match the specifications of your window on your zip code, no brochure from the midwest.
- Ask for regional best practices.
- Do not pay for what you do not use, but do not broke where it counts.
Error #5: Focus on the window, not on the company
“This is really what it comes down to: the installation company that you select to replace your windows and doors.”
Let’s call it what it is: most stories from the window horror are not about the glass; They are about the company behind it. A good installation program will not sell junk. A good company is in his work. And the best are transparent, licensed and locally.
As he says, “Nobody cares about their work, who does really good job, is going to sell nonsense products.”
Reputation is important. This also applies to aftercare. If they disappear after the installation day, good luck to get them back to repair that incorrectly aligned frame.
What to do instead:
- Search reviews, licenses and guarantees.
- Work together with companies that install and stand behind the product.
- Ask what happens when something goes wrong.
Bonus error: skipping the warranty talk
Too many buyers don’t ask: “What happens five years later?” If the window is up or a seal failed, will the company even be to repair it?
What to do instead:
- Ask how long the warranty takes and who honors it.
- Clarely what exists: parts, labor, materials and glass.
- Do not accept vague answers or “we see” obligations.
End Frame
Replacement of the window is not just a home upgrade, it is a big investment. And as every investment, it can quickly go aside if you follow gimmicks, ignore details or hire the wrong crew.
Duncan reminds us: “You can make a mistake, but if you work with a reputable, expert, on expert-based window and door installation company, you are on the right track.”
So don’t be framed. Get informed, get picky and get Windows who work and Wow.
Do you want a free quote without the gimmicks?
Newman Windows & Doors offers expert consultations with transparent prices and energy -efficient solutions that have been built for Socal Homes.
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