August Newsletter – Windows Edition

Because of the tax credit benefit, we are devoting this issue to everything windows. Whether your interest is wood or vinyl windows, there is help for you inside these articles. Check out the question sheet that will give you 10 of the best window questions to ask your manufacturer before purchasing windows. Study the articles, go to the links and then enjoy your newly chosen windows.

Simonton Windows Introduces Decorum

A lot of people know that Simonton windows was the first company to offer one week lead times. Most know that Simonton consistently wins the Builder Award for quality and service and it even won the coveted JD Power award two years in a row.

But did you know that they have set a new standard with their new Decorum Line. This literally takes vinyl windows into direct competition with wood windows and allows a homeowner to experience the benefits of vinyl without the limitation of a white vanilla window.

Now customers can choose exterior colors, interior colors and even high end hardware options. You want oil rubbed bronze? No problem. Be sure to check out Simonton’s spinning wheel to see what works best with your design plans.

What to Look for When Purchasing Windows

There are two huge considerations when purchasing windows.  The first is the least obvious but the most important.  Always be careful who you choose as your installer.  The craftsmanship and expertise utilized in installation is more critical than the differences in the windows.  You are not buying a commodity but a custom piece of furniture that is dependent on the installation to work properly.

Take a look at our window installation instructions for more information as to how a window should be installed and then watch the EASY video to see it in action.  You’d be shocked to know how many windows are installed incorrectly.

The second consideration is the quality of the window itself.  The power of advertisement and branding often camouflages the issue of what real quality looks like.  Because everyone’s window is the “best” we recommend checking out our questions page to assist you in determining the true quality of the window you’ve chosen instead of relying on paid advertisements.  There are questions like does it have extruded aluminum cladding (thick and strong) or does it have roll form aluminum (flimsy and weak).

After you have completed your thorough exam, chosen the best contractor, relax and enjoy the warmth and beauty of your new windows.  Job well done.

An unusual twist on an unusual award (s)

When Simonton windows first won the Builder’s Award for consistent quality and beefy construction the world took notice.  When they won it multiple times it was getting boring.  Although when is beauty and efficiency repeated in every window in your house boring?

Now they have been recognized by the world’s most respected authority for their windows, not just once, but two years in a row.  Highly unprecedented and unusual.  We’ll be quiet.  We’ll let them do the talking.

Shh . . . Can you hear the competition scrambling again?

Loewen puts the “wood” in wood windows

Loewen has been the leader in windows for custom homes for decades. Their precision to details, creative engineering and douglas fir as their standard wood has set them apart from all other window companies.

With the launch of their new double hung, the world is taking notice again. The first thing you will see is that from the inside it is all wood. There is no plastic. No plastic tracks, no plastic jamb liners, no plastic period. You want a wood window, right?

The feel is retro as the hardware takes you back to a time in history that was solid, strong and classy. Even the tilt mechanism to clean the windows is all a part of the single retro latch.

Check out the slideshow of this window which is taking the world by storm and you’ll see why Loewen is not just another pretty face.

Click to see the Slideshow of the new Loewen Double Hung