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Are vinyl windows a good choice in Texas?

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Are vinyl windows a good choice in Texas?

As a window contractor in Dallas Ft Worth Texas, one of the common questions our customers ask is. Are vinyl windows any good? This article will discuss a brief history of vinyl windows. As well as some advantages, disadvantages, problems and what makes a good vinyl window. At the end of this article, you will be able to answer the question. Are vinyl windows a good choice for my home?

 

A brief history of vinyl windows:

  • PVC Vinyl is the second most produced plastic by volume worldwide (after polyethylene). Vinyl is the most produced plastic for building and construction material.
  • The first vinyl windows came from German manufacturers in 1954. Vinyl was a response to post-war material shortages. This was a means to combat the rising cost of aluminum and other building materials.
  • In 1964, Thermal Industries introduced the first vinyl window to the United States. Vinyl windows gained popularity during the energy crisis of the early 1970. As consumers were looking for energy-efficient alternatives for their homes.
  • Vinyl windows make up more than 70% of the market share for residential windows in the United States.

 

What is the advantage of a vinyl window?

 

  • Vinyl windows offer myriad design options and features. Vinyl is easy to extrude into almost any shape. Making vinyl ideal for architectural shaped windows.
  • With the addition of Titanium Dioxide into PVC extrusion. Modern vinyl windows are now available in a myriad of custom colors and finishes. Black and dark bronze are a new but popular color.
  • Vinyl windows have very low maintenance. Vinyl windows never need sanding or painting. The color of vinyl windows are solid through the entire piece of vinyl. Vinyl window frames are easy to clean with soap and water.
  • Vinyl windows are non-conductive, making them superior for energy-efficiency. Vinyl windows are great thermal insulators when compared to wood or aluminum. Foam filled window frames make vinyl windows a great choice for thermal performance.
  • Vinyl windows are a green product and recyclable. Vinyl is remolded into new products, without losing its chemical characteristics.
  • According to the Vinyl Institute, vinyl production is more than 99% efficient. Plus in 2021, more than 1.1 million tons of the vinyl is recycled into other useful products.
  • According to the EPA in a 2018 Municipal Solid Waste Report. PVC represents only 2.6% of all plastic that is land-filled.

 

What are some disadvantages of vinyl windows?

  • Vinyl windows have the tendency to sag due to their flexibility. Their flexibility also limits their size and the weight of the glass they frame. Modern vinyl windows include reinforcement with various materials to add strength and support.
  • Some people find vinyl windows less elegant or natural-looking than real wood windows. Attempting to replicate real wood. Vinyl windows have interior laminates like oak, cherry, pine, and birch.
  • Vinyl window frames can soften, warp, twist and bow if heat builds up within the frame. Modern additives like Titanium Dioxide solve this in problem some windows.
  • Vinyl windows are not particularly strong or rigid. But, windows are not load bearing so this has never been much of an issue.
  • Vinyl windows can discolor over time, especially when subjected to extreme weather conditions. Modern color additives like Titanium Dioxide and Sun-shield vinyl prevent excessive fading.
  • Vinyl windows are difficult to paint. Most paints will not adhere to vinyl, and some primers can weaken the vinyl. New paint technology, changing the way manufacturers are able to produce colored windows.
  • Vinyl windows can be prone to hail damage and other weather extremes. This is where the quality of the vinyl window is important. Vinyl thickness, titanium dioxide and heavy-duty extruded screen frames all provide lasting durability.

 

What kind of defects do vinyl windows have?

  • Pocket frame vinyl windows are great for wind resistance. Weep holes in the bottom of the frame, allow water drainage. Weep holes also clog with debris and trap excess moisture inside the window frame. This can cause mold issues. Manufactures drill weep holes into the bottom side of the frame. Bad window installers can install a window upside-down. As a result, the weep holes are on the top, making them useless.
  • Alarm system holes can permit water penetration, especially in the windowsill. This will void factory warranties. When installing an alarm system. Unknowing installers will often drill a small hole for the alarm wire at the base of the window frame. With vinyl windows, water may leave the window through this hole and follow the alarm wire into the house. This water can cause serious interior water damage and must be avoided at all costs. Wireless alarm systems with glass breakage and motion detectors are a great alternative.
  • Separated window frame corners. Builders grade and cheap vinyl windows often use a mechanical fastened corner. These types of corners consist of screws and a gasket or sealant. Due to expansion and contraction, mechanical corners are prone to failure. Modern vinyl windows use a mitered, fusion heat welded corner. Welded corners are stronger than the window frame itself and rarely have a failure. Installation screw placement is critical. The installation screw must not pass through the corner weld. causing the weld to fail.
  • When a vinyl window is not installed properly. The window frame can sag and twist. Warping in a vinyl window happens for a variety of reasons. Some reasons include; improper screw and shim placement, window measured wrong or installed out of level and failure to apply spray foam around the window frame.

 

What makes a good vinyl window?

 

  • Fusion welded corners on the window frame and sash for strength and durability.
  • Full 3 ¼” window frame for easy replacement and durability.
  • Titanium dioxide or Sunshield treated vinyl. These reduce contraction and expansion as well as adding color durability.
  • Sloped windowsill for proper water control.
  • Full interlocking and reinforced meeting rail for security and durability.
  • Fin Seal weatherstripping to ensure a good seal against wind and pollutants.
  • Constant force balance system for flawless and easy operation.
  • Heavy duty extruded screen frames for long lasting durability.
  • Composite glass spacer system for reduced conduction and condensation.
  • Modern glass coatings based on your home’s climate.
  • Written manufacturer’s warranty that covers the entire window.

In Summary, are vinyl windows a good choice for you home?

The answer is yes. Vinyl windows make an excellent choice for your window replacement project. Make sure you understand what to look for in a good vinyl window. As well as what affects the cost of your window replacement project. Always use certified and factory trained installers that guarantee a lifetime of worry-free operation.

Skilled sales secrets

The ugly truth behind replacement window sales tactics and 5 things you should be aware of

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The ugly truth behind replacement window sales

Today is the first part in a series of insider information about the remodeling business. The ugly truth behind replacement window  sales & marketing. Sales, marketing tactics, and fake discounts that all plague the remodeling industry. At ProTex Remodeling we are often asked the question. Eric, how do I know if I am getting a good deal on my new windows?

Who is coming to your house to give you a “free” estimate today?

Let me start by saying that a great salesperson is no accident, they are highly trained. Many remodeling companies spend thousands of dollars to train a single salesperson on the correct sales tactics to use in your home. That salesperson’s trained to do one thing, close the sale. Many remodeling companies have the budget to hire professional sales trainers. Salespeople that are training in a step-by-step, scripted sales process that is designed to separate you from your hard-earned money. Is it really a “free” estimate? Or is there going to be a scripted, planned out sales presentation that is going to take place in your home? We’re going to shed light on the ugly truth behind replacement window sales and marketing tactics and give you at least 5 things you need to know to get that “good deal”

                         This looks like a good deal, or is it?

It all starts with the hook. These are some of the most often used marketing tactics. You see an ad that may look something like this.
  • Free Installation this month only
  • Buy 2 windows get 1 free
  • $1,500.00 off a house full of windows or siding
  • Special program or special government program. See if your house qualifies.
  • We’re looking for model homes in limited neighborhoods. See if your home qualifies
  • Window trade in discount
  • Buy 2 windows get 1 free or discounted
  • Pay as you go, our price is good for 12 months if you start your project today
  • No payments or zero interest for 12 months

Are all the decision makers going to be at the appointment?

Ever wonder, when trying to set up your “free” estimate. Why some of the first questions they ask you sound something like this?
  • Will your spouse be there?
  • Are you married?
  • Will all parties involved be at the appointment?
  • Are there any other people that need to attend the appointment? We want to make sure they get all their questions answered.
  • We will need at least 2 hours for the appointment.
  • If anyone can’t attend, please call and re-schedule.
  • Is there a specific budget you are thinking about?
  • Did you get any other estimates?
  • Will you need financing?
  • What’s your monthly payment goal?
  • When are you wanting to complete the project?
The answer is simple. Pre-qualifying questions. These questions set the salesperson up with the best opportunity to close the sale. Pre-qualifying questions, expose and limit some of the most most common objections in the sales process. Examples of common objections are.
  • I need to talk it over with my spouse.
  • We’re not sure if we can afford it.
  • We need to apply for a loan.
  • We’re only shopping
  • We need to get other estimates
  • We are short on time and need to leave
These are some of the common objections salespeople are trained to overcome. A good salesperson expects these objections and more. When you fire off an objection their training teaches them to do this.
  • Listen. The salespersons ability to listen and to understand, not only to respond, is critical. The nature of the objection and how it’s communicated. Also contains important information, helping the salesperson tailor their pitch and delivery.
  • Ask questions. After a prospect’s objection, rather than pitching them, ask more questions. Asking questions will get give them a chance to expand on themselves and their needs. The more people talk about themselves, the more you will:
  • Build rapport with the prospect.
  • Establish trust from the prospect.
  • Justify the prospects time investment in you.
  • Isolate the objection. By rephrasing prospects’ objections, priorities, and pain. You display that you’ve listened to them, understood them, and exhibited empathy.
  • Ask for the sale a minimum of 3 to 5 times. The sales profession is anything but easy. That’s why good salespeople are worth their weight in gold. Effective sales pros must have more positive qualities than a boy scout. Even if you do everything else right, asking for the close is challenging. This is why you need to adaptable to every behavioral style.
  • Repeat or loop back. Great salespeople will repeat this process until one of two things happen. You run out of objections that make logical sense and become a closed sale. You get frustrated with the process and ask them to leave. When you ask them to leave you may think, man I’m glad they’re leaving.

What is a trial close?

Before asking for the sale, and part of overcoming your objections. The salespersons uses a series of “trial closes”. Many companies require memorization of specific trial closes. Trial closes are introduced in a very specific order during the sales presentation. You’ll enjoy answering these questions because you simply are not aware of their intentions. The right questions, in the right order lead the salesperson down the correct path that you provided for them. Here are some examples of a trial close:
  • How do you feel about what we have discussed so far?
  • What do you think about the solution I’ve shared with you?
  • How does what we’ve talked about sound to you?
  • Based on what you’ve heard so far, what are your questions?
  • If you had your way, what changes would you make to the proposal?
  • And my favorite. If we can meet your budget, is there any reason we can’t do business today?

What is a hard close?

Using a hard close is when the salesperson is asking you directly for the order. People buy for two reasons. To avoid pain or loss. As well as, to gain pleasure. Here are some examples of a hard close:
  • Wouldn’t you agree that it makes sense to stop wasting money on high utility bills?
  • Wouldn’t you agree that those windows that won’t open are a safety issue for your family?
  • The cost of new windows is only going up. Wouldn’t it make sense to take advantage of today’s pricing?
  • This offer is only good on the initial visit.
  • We only use one house per neighborhood for our marketing partnership discount. I have another appointment around the corner, this may not be available later today.
  • You told me that your budget was____. With this today only discount, this fits your right into your budget.
  • I understand that 20K is a lot of money. You told me that $225.00 per month was in your budget. Wouldn’t you agree that it’s the monthly investment and not the actual price that’s most important? Plus, that payment is less once you factor in your new lower utility costs.

You say to yourself, I’m not falling for any of this nonsense.

Don’t be foolish. Great salespeople will make you enjoy the sales process. While weak salespeople won’t even ask you the questions. Which one of these salespeople will show up to your house? The skill of the salesperson will determine their success rate. As a rule, great salespeople sell more expensive products and make a great living. You will politely  ask them to leave and this happens. It’s one final closing attempt and it’s called the doorknob close. They go something like this:
  • They’re going to turn to you and say how disappointed they are that you’re losing out on a great opportunity.
  • That it’s their fault and they must have must have done something wrong. They offer to get another salesperson involved.
  • You know, there may be one last offer I can get you. I will need to call my manager for approval. It’s going to take a yes or no from you but it’s worth a try and you may save a large amount of money. Many companies mandate this step before a salesperson can leave the sales call.
  • And my favorite. The Taillight close. This is when the salesperson finally leaves and you’re thinking, Wow I’m glad that’s over. Five minutes later the doorbell rings. Mr. & Mrs. Smith, there’s one last thing that I completely forgot about. Knowing that we are so close to meeting your budget. I couldn’t bring myself to drive away without sharing this with you. May I come back in for a second?

I need to get 3 estimates.

Here is what you will run into when you start shopping around.
  • The guy that sells windows out of his truck. He doesn’t know much about sales. May or may not know much about windows. More than likely, installs them himself and may not know what he’s doing. He doesn’t know the correct way to price his jobs and make a profit. This company is usually the lowest price and the first to go out of business. No skilled salespeople to worry about here.
  • The company that has a descent online presence. They know the difference between quality and cheap. Although they may offer both, they still revolve around price. They understand how to make some profit but may still be under bidding their jobs due to the lack of skilled sales people. They subcontract the installation of the windows, often at the lowest possible price. This attracts the novice installers because the good installers know their worth. This company can spends years chasing deposits. Often taking money from one job to complete another. They usually fail within the first five years. This is where novice salespeople learn to close and usually fail.
  • The company that has a good online presence and is easy to find. Has great examples and online reviews of their work and customer testimonials. Sells only quality products and pays installers at the top of the pay scale. This attracts good installers and reduces call backs, thus saving money. Has a good grasp on their business and understands profit and loss. Their prices reflect the real cost of doing business. This company usually lands in the middle to upper end of the price range. This is where above average salespeople progress to, and some become a closer.
  • The company that has an unlimited budget and a huge online presence. Customer reviews that are usually filtered using a company like Guild Quality. Sales managers handle training of the salespeople in the art of closing and re-hashing sales appointments that weren’t closed. Often these companies have a large overhead including payroll, leases, company vehicles and more. Usually, they sell quality products while understanding that a great sales presentation can make a cheap product look good. They have a clear understanding of profit and loss. Their services are priced to reflect their increased overhead and cost of doing business. Sometimes these companies will leverage high volume against better pay for the installers. This may not attract the best installers because the workload doesn’t add up to the pay scale. There is usually an in-house service tech. That person spends their time running behind the installers and putting out fires. To trim the fat, they often look for places to squeeze margins. Usually resulting cheaper installation materials and labor. This company is almost always at or near the highest priced estimates. This is where a real closer works!

In summary, consumer beware.

Buying home improvement is like going to Las Vegas. You’re about to spend more money than you planned. While letting a skilled person, running a game you may not know, directing you down a path you didn’t plan on going down and enjoying every minute of the process. All the while, that little voice in your head is telling you to stop and go see a show. Sorry about the gambling analogy but there’s a reason I don’t go to Las Vegas. The deck is more than likely, stacked against you. In the home improvement business the deck is stacked the same way. Keep in mind that a salesperson sees anywhere between 5 to 15 people per week about home improvement. How mayny times per week to you see a salesperson?

How much does a window cost in Dallas-Fort Worth Texas?

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How much does a good window cost in in Dallas–Fort Worth Texas?

  One of the most common questions we get at ProTex Remodeling in Grand Prairie Texas is. How much does a good window cost? With all the window and glass choices out there in today’s marketplace. This a tough question to answer. Plus, the affect that a quality installation has on the cost. Several replacement window companies deliver on both quality and performance. Great windows need to hold up to the extreme weather of north Texas. Today we will discuss choosing the right replacement window for your home. Plus, the total investment that’s involved.

With over 35 years in the replacement window business. Plus, over 20 years as an installer for not only my company, but many others as a subcontractor. I have seen the good and the bad when it comes to replacement window quality and installation. There are several factors that determine the quality and price of your new windows. None more important than the quality of the installation. Even a bad window, when installed correct, will last for years before failing. Having installed over 50,000 windows and doors in my career. Here is what you should consider when choosing a replacement window and contractor.

What makes a good replacement window installation?

   The quality of your installation depends on several key factors. Let’s look at the most important steps to follow for a great window installation and why.

  • Proper job site preparation. We always take the time to lay down slip proof runners in all high traffic areas of the home to protect your floors. Plus, movers grade padded drop cloths in front of all window openings. As well as painters’ plastic to cover all work site areas and electronics.
  • Proper glass de-glazing. We de-glaze your glass with heat and a putty knife. Breaking the seal between the glass and window frame. Then remove your glass intact, whenever possible.
  • Proper window extraction without damaging the interior or exterior of the home. Removing aluminum window frames takes expertise and patience. Depending on the windows install by the builder. Extraction can sometimes be a very difficult process requiring both expertise and patience.
  • Proper window opening prep before installing the window. Preparing your window opening before installing the new window is imperative. You must remove old mortar and caulking. Plus, removal and replacement of rotted wood. Install OSI Quad spray foam between the brick and exterior sheathing. Especially above the window to re-direct water flow that may get behind the brick.
  • Proper window placement. The new window must be set both level and plumb when possible. Sometimes the home is so far out of square that doing so will make the new window look like it’s installed crooked.
  • Proper shim and screw placement. Always use composite shims to set the new window up over any imperfections in the brick. As well as, in the jambs, head and behind screw placement on large picture windows. Only use dual threaded, composite, exterior screws to install windows. Never use interior drywall screws to install a window.
  • Install OSI Quad spray foam around the new window and in large gaps where necessary. This buts a second layer of protection around your new windows.
  • Check the operation of all window components.
  • Apply OSI Quad caulking to all exterior surfaces to ensure a water and airtight seal. Install paintable interior caulking between the window and sheetrock or trim molding.
  • Clean all window and glass surfaces.  

What are the most important features in selecting a replacement window?

  • Frame type is crucial in a new window. Windows come in a variety of materials. Vinyl, Wood, Fiberglass, Fibrex and Aluminum are the most popular. Each have benefits and value over the other.
  • This is the most popular replacement window material. Vinyl windows represent over 70% of all windows sold in the world today. A quality vinyl should have a full 3 ¼” frame. Multi chambered construction for strength. Titanium Dioxide treated for durability and reinforced frame and sash for added security. The best vinyl windows have foam filled window frames and sashes available. Foam fill adds better thermal performance, also deadening sound.
  • Fiberglass and Fibrex. Unlike vinyl, these materials are strong and do not need reinforcement for security. Plus, both are molded into various shapes. As well as, sanded and painted like real wood.
  • Real wood windows stand the test of time in both function and elegance. Early wood windows were not user friendly. Also, they tended to become inoperable over time, due to many years of painting. Modern wood windows are factory finished and need minimal maintenance. Wood windows are best for full frame replacement down to the rough opening. The best wood windows have a maintenance free exterior cladding for lasting durability.
  • Due to its light weight and durability. This window material is best suited for commercial applications. Aluminum is a great conductor of heat and cold. The addition of a thermal break helps with conduction but does not solve the problem. Aluminum windows have the thinnest frame and maximize glass space.
  • The single most important part of a replacement window is the glass. Various glass coatings differ in manufacturing. Low-E coatings reflect cut solar heat gain and filter UV light. The addition of Argon or Krypton slows down conduction and adds solar efficiency. Dual and Triple glazing is available depending on the climate. All modern glass is Energy Star Certified.
  • NFRC Rating. NFRC stickers are on all replacement and new construction windows. The information on the sticker reflects the performance of the individual window. Never allow someone to install a window where the NFRC sticker is missing. This is a bait and switch tactic, used by shady window contractors. Report an instance of missing NFRC stickers to your local municipality immediately.

 

Summary, what does a good window cost in Dallas-Fort Worth Texas?

When it comes to selecting your new windows. Vinyl, Wood, Fiberglass, Fibrex and Aluminum are all great choices. when it comes to selecting your new windows. The least expensive material is vinyl. Wood, fiberglass, fibrex and aluminum all increase the cost of your window project. The glass coatings that you select for your new windows will affect the cost. As well as the installation and materials used on your project. Factory trained and certified installers using premium sealants, will cost more. Typical sub-contracted window installers using cheap caulking and minimal materials will cost less. You should expect to pay at least of $475.00 per window for a quality vinyl window and installation. You should expect to pay $950.00 or more for wood, fiberglass, fibrex or aluminum windows.

 

Remember. “The bitterness of poor quality lingers long after the sweetness of the lowest price”