Bob the builder has a beautiful home renovation project on his to-do list. He can see potential improvements with the layout, flooring, landscaping, paint, and the windows and doors are older and a little drafty. There is so much to do, and a limited budget to do it with. Naturally, he wants to cut corners where it is possible to do so without cutting quality. One of the first things he checks out is the possibility of going cheaper with his window and door replacements.
Bob goes to a wholesale provider; someone he finds with a basic Internet search. He’s excited to get started on his home renovation project and has convinced himself that generic windows and doors will do just fine. In an effort to save a few bucks, he opts for the cheapest replacement windows and doors available on the market.
Initially, they seem like a great deal — but upon delivery (weeks later) it quickly becomes apparent that he has made a mistake. The windows are not well insulated, leading to drafts and cold air coming into the home. They also create a lot of creaking noises when opened and closed, disrupting his once-peaceful home renovation project. Unfortunately for Bob, the damage is done, and replacing the windows and doors will mean yet another unexpected expense.
Where Did Bob Go Wrong With His Window and Door Replacement Choices?
Bob’s mistake with choosing the cheapest replacement windows and doors is rooted in a few different factors. For one, Bob did not do enough research into the different options available to him. He may have assumed that the windows and doors he chose would do the job, but he did not take into account long-term performance or potential problems like insulation issues and excessive noise levels.
Secondly, Bob was likely influenced by that limited budget. While a cheaper option seemed like a great idea initially, it quickly becomes apparent that he should have invested more in quality replacements that could last for years to come.
Not only is Bob faced with the reality of poor performance from his cheap replacements, he also ends up having to spend more money than expected to replace them all over again. This could have been avoided if Bob had taken the time to research his options thoroughly before making his purchase.
Poor Insulation
Cheaper replacement windows and doors can provide poor insulation, resulting in drafts and cold air entering the home. This is because the more inexpensive replacement window and door companies typically produce products which are made of weaker materials that can provide inadequate insulation in your home. These materials can allow air to escape, resulting in drafts and an increase in energy costs as the temperature within the home quickly changes.
Additionally, cheaper materials often do not have the same energy efficiency ratings as more expensive alternatives. This lack of rating means that you may be purchasing a product with unknown insulation performance. Without proper research into this, it is difficult to know how effective the window or door will be at keeping your home insulated and comfortable all year round.
Noisy Replacements!
Low-quality windows and doors can create loud creaking noises when opened or closed, disturbing the peace of your home. This sound may become louder over time as the moving parts wear and tear due to cheap materials being used.
In addition, when these materials are exposed to extreme weather conditions, such as wind and snow, the noise levels may increase even further as the frames expand and contract from the pressure. This can lead to an unpleasant acoustic environment within your home, making it difficult for you to relax in comfort.
Warping
Warping is a common issue with older windows and doors that have been exposed to high humidity, direct sunlight, or extreme temperatures for long periods of time. This warping can cause the window or door to no longer fit snugly within its frame, leading to drafts and decreased efficiency in terms of insulation. In addition, warping may cause the hardware on the window or door to become loose or misaligned, making them difficult to open or close.
Warping can also cause issues with the sealant around the perimeter of the window or door, allowing air and water leakage which can damage surrounding structures in your home. Therefore it is important to keep an eye out for any signs of warping as windows and doors age in order to prevent further damage down the line.
Unattractive Appearance
Let’s face it; the cheaper stuff doesn’t look as good! In other words, paying less for replacement windows and doors may result in a product that is aesthetically unappealing. This could be due to using inferior materials, resulting in that warping, cracking, discoloring, or fading over time. Furthermore, cheaper frames may not fit as snugly within the wall space as more expensive models, leading to gaps that can be unsightly.
In addition, low-cost options may not have the variety of features and finishes available on higher quality alternatives. This could mean that you miss out on various styles and colors which could really enhance the look of your home’s interior or exterior. Therefore if an attractive aesthetic is important to you, paying less for replacement windows and doors may ultimately mean sacrificing quality for price.
Limited Selection
You’d think the opposite is true, but actually, you have fewer options to choose from when going with a cheaper replacement door or window company. This may limit your ability to find something that perfectly fits your needs.
Poor Customer Service
With cheaper brands, it often comes with a lack of customer service support should you need help with installation or issues that arise down the line. This is not a situation Bob — or anyone else — wants to find themselves in.
From reviews from past customers to comparing prices of different models, there are many ways one can go about ensuring they make an educated decision on something as important as replacing their windows and doors.
Not to toot our own horns, but . . . our dealers offer the best customer service around, as does Monumental Windows and Doors. We make sure of it when we build these partnerships across the country.
Make the Right Window and Door Replacement Choices
Now, we’re getting to the good stuff. When it comes time to select new windows and doors for your home, there are a few key factors you’ll want to keep in mind in order to ensure you’re making the best possible choice. By taking the time to do your research and consider all of your options, you can be confident you’re spending your money on products that will last for years to come.
Pick High-Quality Materials
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure you select windows and doors made from high-quality materials. This is especially important if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, as inferior products are more likely to warp or become damaged under these conditions. In addition, high-quality materials will also do a better job of insulating your home, saving you money on your energy bills.
Consider Thermally Broken Aluminum Framing
Thermally broken aluminum windows and doors are a great choice for those looking for a durable, energy efficient solution. This type of material is made from two pieces of aluminum that are separated by an insulating material to create a barrier against heat transfer. This allows the window or door to stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, meaning greater comfort and reduced energy costs.
Thermally broken aluminum windows and doors are also incredibly durable due to their two-piece construction, which gives them greater strength than traditional single-piece units. They are rated to withstand wind pressures up to 150 mph and can be fitted with insulated glazing — as is the case with Monumental’s products — for added protection against extreme weather conditions.
In addition, thermally broken aluminum windows and doors come in all shapes and sizes, so you’ll be able to find something that fits your existing space without compromising on aesthetic appeal. They require minimal maintenance, making them a great low-maintenance option that will last for years to come.
If you’re looking for an efficient, long-lasting window or door solution, then thermally broken aluminum may be the perfect choice for you. With its superior insulation capabilities, strength and durability, it’s an investment that will pay off in increased comfort levels as well as savings on your energy bills.
Get Measurements, Look, and Feel Right
Another important factor to consider is the size and shape of your replacement windows and doors. Make sure to measure the openings carefully so that you can be sure the new products will fit properly. In addition, pay attention to the style of your home so that the replacements complement the overall look and feel of the property.
Few companies manufacture windows and doors that go with virtually any home style. Often, you’ll be limited by your region, weather conditions, construction style, and more by going with the cheaper option. You’ll also be limited size-wise. Cheaper companies don’t offer custom products.
Install Windows and Doors With the Experts
Finally, don’t forget to budget for professional installation when selecting replacement windows and doors. While it may be tempting to try and save money by doing it yourself, this is often not worth the risk unless you have significant experience with this type of work. Hiring a professional ensures the job will be done right, protecting your investment for years to come. Poorly installed windows and doors won’t provide proper insulation or weather protection and could eventually lead to costly damage down the road.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can be confident you’re selecting the best possible replacement windows and doors for your home. Take the time to do your research now so you can avoid costly problems down the road — and don’t be like Bob.
Learn More About Monumental
Want to get to know us a little better? Here are some FAQs and guidance to the rest of our website. We encourage you to explore and contact us with any questions.
How Can I Learn More About Monumental Products?
Start with our 2023 brochure. You’ll find everything from walls of windows that open onto stunning vistas, to glass wall doors available in customizable sizes and finishes.
How Can I See Your Products In Action?
We have some beautiful articles available, showcasing the best in Monumental Windows and Doors. Here’s one on our newly patented revolutionary sublinear sliding glass door system, and here’s another favorite on our movable glass walls.
I Need More Advice Before Making A Purchase!
Even if you don’t want to reach out to Monumental just yet, our blog has a lot of resources to peruse through in the meantime. If environmental sustainability is on your mind, explore our favorite eco-friendly building and decorative tips here. We also do a deep dive into thermally broken aluminum and why it is the material of choice for our products.
What Is Your Most Popular Product?
That would have to be the 5000 Series Sublinear Sliding Glass Door Systems from Monumental. Newly patented, these systems are some of the most exclusive door products being manufactured in the United States. Designed in California, they sport a uniquely European look and feel. These systems have produced raving real estate fans from coast to coast.
How Are Your Product Warranties?
They’re some of the best in the business. We know the quality and craftsmanship of our work. You will, however, have to talk to the appropriate dealer to get exact details on the warranty offered. But both our warranties and our customer service are second to none.
We hope this feedback was helpful. Drop us a line and let us know if you have additional questions or need to be connected to a Monumental builder, dealer, or architect.