Santa Ana Hts. PAC Information

In Canada windows and doors are not to be taken lightly. They stand between us and the elements, and are the most vulnerable points, both in terms of security and potential heat loss, in most homes. Replacement window installation, while potentially expensive can in some cases pay for itself in energy saving alone over a handful of years. The decision to invest in replacement windows, especially if you have an older home, is often a sound one. That said the financial outlay is significant and so you want to make sure that you are getting the best windows and the best contractors to install them. Even the best window, if improperly installed, will spill heat out into the winter nights. So, how do you know if you're getting the best windows?

## Energy efficiency is paramount.

If you are living in Canada chances are good that you suffer through long cold winters and high heating bills. It's crucial that your choice of replacement windows be as energy efficient as possible. You should be looking for Low-E (specially coated), gas-filled units. Also, the manufacturer or vendor should be able to discuss their windows in terms of the Canadian ENERGY STAR rating qualifications which can be found on the Natural Resources Canada website at www.nrc.gc.ca

## Finding window vendors and contractors.

If you don't have reputable recommendations from friends or family who've had windows replaced you probably should start your search online by simply doing a local Google search for the term 'Replacement Windows' along side the name of your province or city. Check out the sites that rank highest and evaluate the qualifications and testimonials they have to offer.

## Check out the contractors and vendor ahead of time.

Sometimes the vendor and installers will be one and the same. This is quite often ideal as it's one less level of potential complications in terms of stock and expertise. Often you'll be utilising a contractor to install windows from a separate supplier. It is crucial that you check out both the vendor and the contractor carefully. Go online and see if they've unresolved complaints leveled against them with the Better Business Bureau. Keep in mind a business need not be BBB accredited to be a good business but it should not have unresolved complaint or concerns .

## What to expect from a prospective contractor.

Once you have narrowed your search down to two or three potential contractors start getting estimates. Any decent contractor should be happy to provide free no obligation estimates. A contractor should be able to provide a guarantee on their work and product and be willing to sign a contract before work begins.

If you've decided to replace the windows in your home you've made a great first step in potentially saving yourself a great deal of money down the road. What is important is that you take the time to ensure that first step lands on solid ground and that both the windows you purchase and the individuals you hire to install them are up to the task.