Why Cheaper Window Replacement Doesn’t Mean Better

Everyone loves a good deal, and a low price can be tempting when it comes to home improvements like window replacement. However, the saying “you get what you pay for” is particularly relevant in this context. In today’s post, Renewal by Andersen® of Rapid City takes a look at why cheaper replacement windows don’t mean better.

The Hidden Costs of Cheap Windows

The initial low cost of cheap windows is often misleading. The low price is due to a combination of factors like low-grade materials, unskilled labor, and little to no quality control during manufacture. Consequently, inferior quality windows tend to have a shorter life span that result in more frequent replacements. These products may not even have insulating features (sometimes contrary to their spec sheets) and are unlikely to have ENERGY STAR® certification.

This means you may end up spending less on the contract cost, but you’d be spending more on subsequent repairs and early replacement. There’s also the missed energy savings due to its inefficiency, which can add up over the years.

What Window Features Should You Invest In?

If you are shortlisting replacement window contractors, there are two key areas that you should focus on: the quality of the windows and the contractor’s workmanship.

In terms of quality, replacement windows should be made of material that’s strong, durable and has low maintenance requirements. This is why, as a long-time custom window replacement company, we at Renewal by Andersen have developed our own composite material for our frames — Fibrex®. While this and other features put our replacement windows on the more expensive side, the savings derived from its energy efficiency and minimal maintenance costs, as well as replacements being few and far in between, are worth considering.

Workmanship is an often overlooked aspect of window replacement. Window installation requires precision if long-term performance is to be expected, which is why it’s better to invest in skilled installers who will get it right the first time. After all, even the best replacement windows won’t perform as expected if not installed properly. The best installers will always back their work with a workmanship warranty.

To find out more about how our replacement windows can help you save in the long run, give our team at Renewal by Andersen of Rapid City a call at (605) 341-7831. You can also fill out our online form to schedule a consultation. We serve Rapid City, SD, and the surrounding communities.