"From your informative sales presentation to your one-day
installation of 20 windows, we have found dealing with A-BEST a
pleasure."
Richard J. Chappell
West Poland
There are several key questions homeowners should ask potential
companies when looking into replacing their windows.
What is the grade of your windows?
All windows are rated according to performance criteria sponsored by
the American Architectural Manufacturers' Association (AAMA). All
windows fall within a scale from 15 to 60, based on their test
performances. Ask for documentation showing the grade of the
window.
Many advances have been made with respect to glass technology. What
glass is right for my house?
In Maine, the best glass for year-round energy savings is Energy
Advantage Low-E glass by LOF - the most energy efficient glass
available.
Who does the window installation?
Many companies use subcontractors to do their installations. To have
control over the company that sells you the windows, make sure a direct
employee - not a subcontractor - is also installing the windows.
What is the warranty on the window?
Most reputable window companies will give a 10 to 20 year warranty on
window components to be free of manufacturing defects. This warranty
should also cover the cost of labor to make the corrections.
How many years have you been in business?
Make sure the company you choose has a proven track record of several
years. Ask for references.
Is this window maintenance free?
Wood swells in wet weather and shrinks in the heat. It also needs
painting or staining to keep it from rotting. Aluminum dents and
conducts cold through the window. Solid reinforced vinyl is the answer
if you truly want a maintenance-free window.
Can I clean this window from the inside?
Most advanced windows allow for easy tilt of both sashes for cleaning
of all glass surfaces from the inside.
Do I need storm windows after I have replacement windows
installed?
No. As long as you have upgraded the current window system. Two ways to
assure you've done this: Insist upon Energy Advantage Low-E glass, and
insist upon Swiggle Strip by Tremco as the sealant between the two
layers of insulated glass. Swiggle Strip will virtually eliminate
conduction which occurs with aluminum banded insulated glass.
How long will the installation take?
If the window is truly a replacement window (meaning custom made to fit
the exact size of the window it's replacing), most installations take
one or two days. Don't be fooled by new construction windows which only
come stock size and necessitate costly carpentry, inside trim, outside
trim, plaster, sheetrock and paint.
Why do some window companies insist on pressure selling me into a
decision instead of letting me do some comparison shopping?
The reason these companies are willing to give you such a "great deal"
tonight and only tonight is because they know if you comparison shop
you will find a better deal. Insist on comparison shopping and don't be
pressured into quick decisions.
If you have any additional questions regarding replacement windows, please feel free to contact us by phone.