In this article, you’ll discover why vinyl windows are the “right fit” for most Northwest Indiana homeowners. Compared to other replacement windows, most educated homeowners choose vinyl windows for cost, energy efficiency, performance, maintenance, and style options. A Vinyl Replacement Window also holds up better. When installed by a home improvement contractor, the best vinyl windows come with a lifetime warranty and a 5-year labor warranty. So, with so much to offer, why do most window companies try to sell new construction windows? Today, you’ll discover why!
In this article, you’ll discover the secrets to Window Replacement and why vinyl windows measure up perfectly in Northwest Indiana.
Make the Vinyl Windows Fit Your Home. Never Make the Home Fit the Window!
According to Kusiak Construction’s Bob Popovich, homeowners will find two types of windows in the market, retrofit replacement windows and new construction windows. New Construction Windows are mass-produced in standard sizes. These windows are made to be installed in a new house before drywall, paint and exterior treatments are installed. The second type of window is called a retrofit window. These windows are made to fit your home’s existing window cut-out. Retrofit vinyl windows are custom-made to fit your home and can be ordered in virtually every design, look and color. retrofit windows also are regionally made with purpose-built technology.
It might surprise you, but most big-name window brands you see advertised are new construction windows. When these windows are bought, the builder frames the newly constructed home around the mass-produced window. Once done, the home’s interior and exterior are finished. These windows do a decent job, as long as they are installed before the house is completed. However, as replacement windows, new construction windows require a very expensive and extensive home renovation. This includes modifying your home’s existing brick, siding, drywall, trim, etc.
According to the article, Why Vinyl Windows Fit NWI like a Glove, Popovich says, “This is not a good choice for replacement windows because the home will require extensive work to make the home fit the window. The smart choice is selecting a window to fit the home’s existing window opening.”
Retrofit Windows and Vinyl Windows | NWI’s Best Window Replacement
So why do so many window companies try to sell new construction windows? Because new construction windows come with nationally recognized brands that flood the market with advertising. They are also built with economies of scale. They are mass produced and seem affordable until you consider the cost of modifying a home to fit the window. This is the perfect storm for confusing a homeowner. Companies can sell on price alone and bump their prices once the homeowner commits to the brand. When the unsuspecting homeowner is pressured to pay thousands more for labor, they either buy or become frustrated. Dazed and confused, the homeowner often ends their customer journey.
While retrofit windows are the best window format for an existing home, vinyl windows are the best type of replacement window. A vinyl replacement window has unlimited models, features, options, and colors. Kusiak’s website has a dedicated Window Page listing different types of vinyl replacement windows. It also has a flip brochure with standard and custom color options.
While vinyl replacement windows have endless style and color options, most people agree it is the performance and value that make them the right fit for Northwest Indiana’s extreme summers and winters. Vinyl windows outperform wood, aluminum, and every other window for energy efficiency, maintenance, durability, and selection. Because vinyl window’s custom colors are extruded, the popular black vinyl windows and custom dark colors can be manufactured without scratching or chipping issues. Most black replacement windows are painted and can scratch, chip or fade.
As a home improvement company, Kusiak loves retrofit windows because they save the customer around $1000 in insulation per window. The money not spent on unnecessary services can be better utilized by upgrading the window. Kusiak offers three levels for each offering: bronze, silver, and gold. According to Kusiak, “As a home improvement contractor, we have a responsibility to help the customer find the right price and not under or overspend. Our good-better-best concept helps the customer find the right fit!”
Home Improvement vs Window Companies | What’s the Difference!
As a Home Improvement Company, Kusiak Construction focuses on building local relationships and their reputation.
Have you ever wondered why most window companies advertise new construction windows emphasizing the name brand and base price? These companies avoid disclosing the installation cost until you’re committed to making a decision. Before discussing the actual window replacement cost, you’ll be expected to have all decision-makers at the presentation, and the pushy salesman will want to know, “If the figures are agreeable, are you a buyer today.” There is a reason why they don’t include installation costs until you and any other decision-maker are part of the pitch. Why? Because they rely on pressure tactics, confusion, and guilt! For them, it’s a commissionable, one-time sale!
By contrast, a home improvement company is an expert in helping homeowners make sound decisions. They consider how the window fits your home’s construction and your long-term goals. In short, a home improvement company is inspired by building relationships with you; its reputation is everything!
Home improvement companies can also be counted on to go the distance. They are usually also licensed, bonded, and insured. Kusiak Construction exceeds local requirements because they feel it’s insufficient to protect their customers against potential emergencies or any occurrence years after the job is complete. Kusiak considers it a responsibility to cover any unlikely event that might occur.
Finally, the best vinyl windows come with a lifetime warranty on the windows and, when installed correctly by a certified contractor, an additional 5-year warranty on the labor. In the home improvement industry, warranties matter, and warranties keep relationships. Here is a link to lifetime warranties.
Why Black Vinyl Windows a Smart Investment
Black Vinyl Windows are a wise investment because they enhance your home’s market demand. They offer aesthetic and practical benefits that contribute to a home’s overall value and attractiveness, making them a worthwhile investment for homeowners looking to enhance curb appeal.
- Increased Property Value: Black Vinyl windows are stylish and modern, often appealing to buyers looking for contemporary or high-end aesthetics. Their visual appeal can boost a home’s market value, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
- Enhanced Curb Appeal: The striking contrast of black vinyl windows against various exterior finishes can dramatically improve a home’s appearance. This high-contrast look can make the home stand out in the neighborhood, which can be particularly advantageous if you’re looking to make a strong impression.
- Modern Aesthetic: Black vinyl windows contribute to a sleek, modern design that aligns with current architectural trends. This can help the home look more up-to-date and stylish, which is beneficial for personal satisfaction and attracting future buyers.
- Durability and Low Maintenance: Vinyl windows are known for their durability and resistance to elements like moisture and UV rays. Black vinyl windows are often engineered to maintain their color and finish over time, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or repainting. This durability adds long-term value to the home.
- Energy Efficiency: Many black vinyl windows come with advanced features like low-E glass coatings and insulated frames, which can improve the home’s energy efficiency. Better energy performance can lead to lower utility bills and contribute to overall home value.
- Versatility: Black vinyl windows can complement various architectural styles and exterior materials. Their versatility makes them a good choice for a wide range of home designs, from traditional to modern.
- Enhanced Visual Appeal: Black windows look good, but they can also highlight other design features of the home, such as architectural details or landscaping, creating a more cohesive and attractive exterior.
- To learn more about Black Vinyl Windows, here is a link to the article, Black Vinyl Windows | NWI’s Hottest Home Improvement Trend
What Should I Look For in a Vinyl Replacement Window
When evaluating vinyl windows, you’ll want to consider several key factors to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product:
Vinyl Window | Material & Quality
Vinyl Composition: Look for windows made from high-grade, UV-resistant vinyl. Premium vinyl windows will resist warping, cracking, and fading over time. Kusiak recommends choosing vinyl window manufacturers that focus on the Midwest market. The material and construction methods used by these companies
Frame Strength: The frame should be sturdy and reinforced, especially in larger windows. Some high-quality vinyl windows have metal reinforcements for added strength.
Replacement Window Finish and Color:
Durability of Finish: Ensure the black finish is applied using a process that ensures it won’t peel or fade. Look for windows with a factory-applied, color-fast finish.
Heat Absorption: Be aware that black can absorb more heat. Check if the window’s design accounts for this with appropriate insulation or low-emissivity (Low-E) glass coatings.
Window Insulation and Energy Efficiency:
Glass Options: To improve energy efficiency, consider double—or triple-pane glass with Low-E coatings. Argon or krypton gas between panes can also enhance insulation.
Weather Seals: Quality windows should have effective weather seals to prevent drafts and improve energy efficiency.
Window Replacement Frame Design:
Profile Design: Look for a frame with a design that offers good thermal performance and structural integrity. The profile should also align with your aesthetic preferences.
Grid Options: If you want a traditional look, check if the windows offer built-in grid options or removable grids that complement the black finish.
Vinyl Window’s Warranty and Manufacturer Reputation:
Warranty Coverage: A strong warranty can provide peace of mind. Look for coverage that includes both the frame and the finish.
Brand Reputation: Choose windows from reputable manufacturers known for their quality and customer service.
Replacement Window Installation:
Professional Installation: Proper installation is crucial for performance and longevity. Typically, a Home Improvement Contractor is experienced with vinyl windows and understands the specifics of working with black finishes.
Considering these factors will help you select black vinyl windows that offer both aesthetic appeal and long-term durability. It’s also important to ensure they’re properly installed and maintained.
The Best Vinyl Replacement Window is the One that Fits You!
Kusiak Measures a Home for a Retrofit Vinyl Replacement Window
As a Home Improvement Contractor, Dave Kusiak believes the best replacement window is a retrofit window format because it is measured and built to fit the home’s existing window opening. But when it comes to recommending a vinyl window, Kusiak believes the best vinyl replacement window is the one that fits you.
Here are some helpful links for learning more.
Black Vinyl Windows | NWI’s Hottest Home Improvement Trend
Why Vinyl Windows Fit NWI like a Glove
Window Replacement | The Essential Guide for NWI
The Kusiak Planning Center. Bob Popovich & Dave Kusiak
Written by Jim Jano Janesheski
JANO-DIGITAL
