Finding the best, most energy-efficient replacement windows is important anywhere, but it’s especially key here in the Kansas City area.
We have broiling hot summers and icy cold winters, and those extremes create big spikes on energy bills.
Many homeowners would love to replace their old, inefficient windows, but they get overwhelmed by confusing claims.
It can be especially challenging to sort through the claims here in 2017 because of advances in energy-efficient technology. There’s just so much more to choose from.
The biggest favor you can do yourself is to streamline the process.
You can do that by asking 3 simple but powerful questions of any Kansas City replacement window company.
Question #1: ‘What ratings tell me how energy efficient my windows are?’
One rating to pay attention to is the U-Factor. The lower this number, the more resistant the window is to heat flow. Less heat flow makes for a more efficient window.
Another key rating is the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). That measures how much solar radiation is getting through the window. The lower the SHGC, the more efficient the window.
Also, be sure that your energy-efficient windows meet the most up-to-date ENERGY STAR® requirements. Windows that can’t at least meet this standard should not be put on Kansas City homes.
Question #2: ‘What is the experience level of your installers and do you have proof of their quality?’
When it comes to energy-efficiency and replacement windows, the quality of the installation matters.
Poorly installed windows become drafty or leaky. Sloppy installation can wipe out the energy savings that you otherwise get from newer, more efficient windows.
It’s unfortunate, but many Kansas City replacement window companies choose to save on installation costs. They hire the lowest-bidding sub-contractor or inexperienced temporary labor.
Choose a company with proven installers and a long track-record. That’s how you’ll get maximum benefit from your new windows.
Question #3: ‘What glass packages do you offer?’
The number one most important factor in a window’s energy efficiency is the quality of the glass. There are double and triple pane options, argon gas fillers, glazing, and more. All this impacts energy savings.
Almost any company can offer your different glass package options, so it’s not necessarily about the number of glass choices given to you. What’s more important is the QUALITY of the answer you get.
Look for a window company that educates you and avoid those companies just trying to “sell” you.
Also, find a window representative that demonstrates deep knowledge of the different glass packages available and makes professional recommendations. Avoid those companies that take a few quick measurements and then hand you a vague quote.
A Final Recommendation
There is one last question to ask, and this is one you need to ask yourself:
‘Am I comfortable that I completely trust this window company?’
How a company handles the consultation and quote process is a good clue to how they’ll handle the entire job.
It’s also a good idea to do a little additional research online. Visit their website and check out their online reviews, too.
By asking these 3 questions of any window contracting company and judging the professionalism of the answers, you can make the task of shopping for energy efficient replacement windows in Kansas City much easier.
Johnson County Siding & Window Co. is a trusted name in replacement windows in the Kansas City area. If you want to learn more about our replacement windows and how we can help lower your monthly utility bills, contact us today!
