The answer: MOST replacement window companies do NOT WANT you to know.
Some window companies advertise one price: the cheapest price available. They dont advertise or talk about, let alone prove, the quality of product and service they’re prepared to offer…they just “assure you” that they’re the cheapest. They “bait” you in with an extremely low advertised price, and “upsell” you on a ‘better’ window.
Now, are there companies that run so efficiently that they’re able to offer super-low prices? Sure…but they’re rare. Generally speaking, let me ask you: When’s the last time you got a good deal (i.e.- quality product at a fair price) buying the absolute cheapest product? In ANYTHING?
My preference, is to deal with companies that focus on pricing that makes sense. My preference is to deal with companies that are able to show me that their product and price combination represents the very best VALUE in the marketplace, and prove it.
OK, so how about the answer to the original question?
Well…it’s a tough one. There are so many variables related to the price of a window:
- Quality of Product
- Level of Craftsmanship
- Decorative Options
- Installation Methods (pocket install vs. full frame)
- Quality of Installation Materials
- Interior Trim Options
- Potential ancillary Construction (rotted sills, etc…)
- Thermal Efficiency
- Structural Strength
- Warranty
With all these variables, prices can vary dramatically. But there is a method for us to make certain assumptions, and to start to get a general idea. That method, is called the “COST vs. VALUE Report“, and it’s published every year by Remodeling Magazine, a respected publication in the home improvement industry.
The Cost vs. Value report compares average costs for 29 different remodeling projects, including replacement windows. It even allows you to focus in on the region of the country that you live in, because that is a large variable as well.
The results?
First of all…let’s just say it’s far from “$189”.
Second, I want to encourage you download the cost vs. value report for yourself. That way, you’re not taking my word for it.
Once you review this report, I think you’re going to be pleasantly surprised, by the prices offered by your local Window Depot. In fact, we save homeowners about 34% when compared to the national averages. I think I’ll just leave it at that!
Great Value happens when you pay fair prices for quality product and craftsmanship. As soon as you skimp, you get what you pay for. And when companies try to hide their pricing, you often get swindled.
I happen to believe that FAIR pricing is better than the cheapest, guaranteed. It works in almost every other area of life. Why would windows be any different?
You may also like this article: Replacement Windows for $189?
