Checklist for New Home Windows

You definitely want to use this checklist when shopping for New Home Windows. Feel free to add to this list and make additional notes!

First, answer the first set of questions. A contractor may ask these questions and the more information you can provide, the better s/he can assess your window needs. And don't be afraid to ask the contractor questions!

Second, get at least 3 written estimates for your New Home Windows. Use the second section to record information collected during and after the estimate.

Third, compare your written estimates and choose the one that's best for you. Try not to look only at the price. Price is, or course, the major consideration but make sure you take into account the product and its warranty and the quality of the company itself.

Type, number and size of windows to be replaced:

Example:
2 Portrait Window 3' x 5' , 10' x 6' , _____ x _____

_____ Portrait Window _____ x _____, _____ x _____, _____ x _____

_____ Patio Door/Sliding Door _____ x _____, _____ x _____

_____ French Doors _____ x _____, _____ x _____, _____ x _____

_____ Bay Window _____ x _____, _____ x _____, _____ x _____

_____ Bow Window _____ x _____, _____ x _____, _____ x _____

_____ Other _____ x _____, _____ x _____, _____ x _____

Do any of the windows leak?

_____ Yes

Which ones __________________________________________________

_____ No

Type of frame you would like:

_____ Vinyl _____ Wood _____ Aluminum _____ Other _____ Not Sure

Number of panes you would like:

_____ Single _____ Double _____ Triple _____ Not Sure

Desired special features:

_____ Easy to Clean ______ Security Features _____ Specific Color

_____ Other ________________________________________________

Will you install your New Home Windows yourself or have them installed for you?

_____ I will install them myself.
_____ I will have them installed by a professional.

Company Name:

Price:

When can installation begin?

_____ less than 1 week _____ 1-2 weeks _____ 3-5 weeks

_____ more than 5 weeks

How long will this project take?

_____ Days _____ Weeks

If the project takes take more than one day, what precautions will be taken to protect the unfinished work while the installers are away?




How long is the warranty?

_____ Five-Year _____ Ten-Year _____ Twenty-Year _____ Lifetime

Other__________________________________________________________

Is the warranty transferrable if the home is sold?

_____No _____Yes

List any restrictions on transferring the warranty:

________________________________________________________________

Are these windows Energy Star?

_____ Yes _____ No
(Energy Star products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines and will save energy.)

What is the U Value? _____
(The U value tells you how much heat passes through the glass. A lower U value means less heat gets through.)

What is the Low E rating? _____
(A Low E coating limits the amount of heat that passes through the glass. The lower the rating, the better the insullation.)

Are these windows Eligible for an Energy Efficient Tax Break?

____ Yes ____ No

Are there any special features/advantages to this company and its windows?



Are there any drawbacks/disadvantages of this company and its windows?

Return to our Energy Efficient Windows Page