As an authorized dealer of Universal Windows Direct, we've been serving the replacement window needs of Twin Cities residents for years. By providing high-quality, energy efficient replacement windows at competitive prices, we've built a strong reputation for superior services that our customers count on.
Read MoreWhen I think about winodw terms starting with the letter Q all I can think of is QUESTIONS. And listen. All questions are good and all are valid. Because when you think about it you are not supposed to know everything. You will buy windows only once or twice in your life. Ask all the questions. Understand what you are being quoted. Omigosh. QUOTE. (I’ll get back to that). When a sales guy is in your home he wants you to have the information and he wants you to be involved in the process. Asking questions is a great way to actively show involvement.
QUOTE - otherwise known as a estimate. Should be in writing. Should clearly state what features are included in the price that is given. A Quote is the written culmination of the conversation you had with your sales guy and is the document that is left behind if you choose not to buy that night.
For more information on window terminology, and to get your free quote on replacement windows from Steve the Window Guy visit our website or click the button.
Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.
We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.
*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.
Read this blog for a behind the scenes look at Universal Windows Direct working the Anoka County Fair.
It’s a glamorous life. County fairs.
The view from my booth today is much the same as it has been every day with one small exception. Today there is a cheese curd sitting in the doorway.
I am fortunate to have a great spot. We are the first booth you can see when you enter the building and our display spreads out across the entire wall. This allows us to display windows, siding, asphalt shingles, steel roofing, entry doors and we even have a little patio door sample here!
During the day I love watching the 4H kids come through here. The wild messy hair, the dirty jeans and the cowboy boots are perfectly accessorized by the pride those kids have and their super confident walks. When a group of kids walks through you can always tell which kid is the 4H kid and which ones are friends and family here for a visit. They just carry themselves differently.
Have you ever been to a county fair? If you have, I bet you went at night. Or over the weekend. Day times at the fair are slow. People meander. They stroll. They generally look around at what the fair has to offer, then they indulge in a corn dog. Or mini donuts. Well, and cheese curds. Always cheese curds.
I think most people check out the animal buildings. Then they walk through the midway, and then MAYBE… just MAYBE they decide to go into the commercial buildings.(Just to get out of the sun for a minute or two.) Very seldom do daytime fair people come in to the commercial building with the intent to truly visit with the vendors, to learn about products or to schedule appointments. The meandering county fair crowd is not known for having an agenda.
County Fairs get exciting at night time. That is when they have bands play, the grandstand hosts their festivities and the Midway lights up. The energy is just different. Crowds flood the streets and people want to stay and soak it all in. This includes the commercial buildings. And talking to vendors. And scheduling appointments. Nights and weekends at the fair... that’s where it’s at.
As I write this it occurs to me that when you staff a county fair you want to do it in a way that is opposite of how you train a horse. You do not want to “break” your best sales people early. You don't want them to be so bored and hot and burned out from the week that they are worthless all weekend.
Those employees that are the best at working with people and asking for the appointment should only work nights and weekends. For example, Steve the Window Guy will be here Friday night and all day Saturday. He will burst into this building like a game show contestant - smiling from ear to ear and clapping. He will infuse the building with energy. That is perfect. You should really save the boring early week day time hours for other people. Like me.
I love working the slow daytime hours. My typical days look like this. The fair opens at 10am. I walk into the building and set up the booth. I greet the same handful of people that have been around me all week. We exchange quips about our night. We speculate on the weather. We comment that it is at least 15 muggy degrees warmer in the building than it is outside. We see the other vendors wandering around doing their thing too.
Side note: If it is 10:20 am and a single man in a polo shirt slowly walks by the booth looking curious he is working at the fair. At another home improvement company. Without exception. They aren’t sneaky. They are all nosy. I hope they like our booth. I think it looks amazing. I like that they notice.
I bring a laptop. Most everyone has their phones, or puzzles or a newspaper or novel to keep them occupied. The fair has been open for 90 minutes right now and there is only one person in this building. I can get some work done. I am accessible if needed, but I am productive.
Later this afternoon I will wander and find a snack. Maybe a Dole Whip and maybe some Kettle Korn. I promised the girls at Tessie’s Daycare Cotton Candy. A bit of fresh air will do me good. In the meantime, I sit. I hold down the fort. I am proud that I am keeping my sales guys fresh so when the crowds arrive and the buyers flock in they can work their magic. We are poised to have a great Fair.
If you are at the fair this year, stop out and say HI. We'd love to see you! Reporting live from the Anoka County Fair… peace out.
Author: Melissa Brager
Steve the Window Guy recorded his first radio spots this morning. Read this blog for a behind the scenes look!
Radio. Radio! RADIO!!! (So many ways you can say it!) We are taking the plunge into radio advertising! After talking and planning and writing ad copy for the last few weeks today was the big day and we recorded our spots!
We were both nervous but the kind of nervous where you don’t talk about it – you just both know it is there. The morning was busy as we got our peanut dropped off at Primrose, we got the installers going, met a contractor who was placing an order, sent in payroll and generally tried to get our desks in order. By 9:15 we were on our way!
We recorded at Clear Channel Studios in St Louis Park. From the minute the elevator doors opened we knew we were in a creative space! Shiny stainless steel looking floors, bright colors and lots of pictures were everywhere! We got there early, of course, so we were treated to a wonderful conversation with a studio exec who was so warm and positive and genuine that all of our nerves melted away on the spot.
He gave us the quick tour of the offices where we went into the very very cool Studio C and we were able to catch a glimpse of KDWB, KFAN and K102 recording their shows. We popped in quick to meet Lee Valsvick and we ran into Keri Noble and Adam West in the hallways. If radio personalities you hear all the time can be normal people in jeans and a cozy hoodie then what could we possibly be worried about, right?
By the time we entered our studio to record we were ready! Both our marketing guru Loni and the sound genius Dave made it really easy to get a finished product we are excited about. Doesn't Steve look professional?
Steve might say it wasn’t really easy, but no one gets it perfect the first time. We recorded the same words and the same phrases about one hundred times. We edited copy on the spot, we swapped our phrases, we re-ordered things, and we recorded until it was perfect.
Literally one hour later we walked out with 2 completed 15 second spots. It felt incredibly productive and wonderful.
Our spots will be running on KFAN and on MYTALK 107.1 starting next week in the 6-9am slots. Tune in on your way to work and when you hear our ads tell us. Write on our Facebook Page and tell us what you think. WE hope you love them as much as we do!
Meanwhile, if you or someone you know is in the market for windows, siding, doors or roofing, contact us for a free quote! I’ll send Steve The Window Guy out to your home and you’ll have a blast!
Author: Melissa Brager
Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct
This blog gives a behind the scenes look at our life working home shows!
We survived.
The spring home show season for 2014 is officially over for us.
Some companies hire a staff of people who do nothing but work shows. We chose not to do that. Steve, Zach and I work most of them. We prefer to have people in our booth who know the product and can have an intelligent conversation with you. Zach, Dave, Joe, Sarah and Mike are all people we adore both personally and professionally. They are smart. They are helpful. They are knowledgeable. They are good people and we trusted them to represent our company. Having that level of trust made those big huge long shows very successful for us. More importantly, their help meant we didn't have to be there every minute.
Home shows are a lot of hours. Still, they are the best way to get our name out to the local communities. Are they the only way for us to personally connect with homeowners and potential customers? YES! Are they hands down the best way for a prospective customer to see the quality of our replacement windows and doors while comparing to the competition? ABSOLUTELY!
But is working a home show every weekend easy? NO!
While everyone else is winding down their Friday and calculating how much longer they have to pretend to work before Happy Hour , we are just getting started. We are loading the truck. We are printing our move-in instructions. We are gambling with rush hour traffic; trying to get a bit more done in the office before we go set up.
Have you ever seen a home show get set up? It’s like one of those little Chinese puzzles we used to get as kids at birthday parties. Everyone is jockeying for a spot by the door. Everyone is frantically unloading their stuff and dumping it into their booth so they can move the truck and the next guy can get in. It isn’t a calm process.
Then, once all of our displays are inside we arrange the booth. Do you think the booth would be easy to arrange every time? It isn’t! We have different set ups every single time based on the location and size of the booth, the number of corners the booth has, whether or not we’re on the end, and even what show it is. This means once everything is unloaded we do the whole scratching our head thing and start moving stuff until it feels right. (Not unlike when we moved into our home trying to decide the best spot for the sofa!)
We do our best. We make a list of what we forgot, and we head home. Do we stop for ice cream? Yes. Most days.
If we are both working, the “show prep” continues with prepping the babysitter for the next day. We try to clean the house so we don’t look like total slobs. We try to make sure there is food for the sitter and for the baby… and we usually do an okay job at it. Just like that our Friday night is shot.
Saturday Mornings are crazy. We are busy getting up and ready to go. We need a big breakfast. We need to pack a lunch. We spend what time we can with our daughter. We greet the babysitter and give her last minute instructions, then we race off to buy the caffeine we’ll need for the day and then race to the show. Often we stop at the office to grab something. More often then I’d like to admit, we stop at the grocery store to buy food for lunch. And a doughnut. (our nutrition suffers).
By the time the show opens we are ready to go and we work. We talk to hundreds of people every day. We demo our replacement windows. We show the quality of our steel and fiberglass entry doors. We talk about the benefit of being a preferred contractor with Owens Corning for our roofing. We talk until we cannot talk any more. Then we ride home in silence. Exhausted.
The next day we repeat the whole routine.. with the added bonus of tear down. At the end of the show we tear it all down, pack it all up, re-load the truck, jockey for loading space in the back of the show space and then take it all home. And unload it all back in to the warehouse. Sunday night is usually a late night.
Then on Monday morning the week starts all over again. The phone keeps ringing, orders keep getting placed, jobs keep getting installed, and our sales guys keep running appointments. We look ahead to the next weekend and what we need to do to get ready.
For us, home show season starts at the end of January and goes until mid-April. We have a few weekends off, but for the most part we are working every weekend. It is necessary. It is beneficial. It is tiring. It is exhausting.
If you talked to us at a show this year, thank you very much. We appreciate your time and consideration. We love our company. We believe in our products and we strive to do the best possible job for you and your family.
Next weekend we have a weekend. This is going to feel new to us. And it is going to feel so very GOOD. I can’t wait.
Meanwhile, if you or someone you know is in the market for replacement windows, doors, siding or roofing, please contact us for a free quote.
Steve The Window Guy sells more than just windows in MN!
Author: Melissa Brager
Related Articles:
Why you should go to a Home Show
Universal Windows Direct has earned the service industry’s coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award, reflecting an exemplary year of service provided to members of the consumer review service in 2013.
Universal Windows Direct Earns Esteemed 2013 Angie’s List Super Service Award
Award reflects company’s consistently high level of customer service
Universal Windows Direct has earned the service industry’s coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award, reflecting an exemplary year of service provided to members of the consumer review service in 2013.
“We are so proud to have been given this honor. We work hard for our customers, and we are always pleased to see that they are happy with our business. We would like to thank everyone that helped us receive this award.”
“Only about 5 percent of the companies Universal Windows Direct competes with in the Minneapolis/Saint Paul are in Minnesota are able to earn our Super Service Award,” said Angie’s List Founder Angie Hicks. “It’s a mark of consistently great customer service.”
Angie’s List Super Service Award 2013 winners have met strict eligibility requirements, which include an “A” rating in overall grade, recent grade, and review period grade; the company must be in good standing with Angie’s List, have a fully complete profile, pass a background check and abide by Angie’s List operational guidelines.
Service company ratings are updated daily on Angie’s List. Companies are graded on an A through F scale in areas ranging from price to professionalism to punctuality. Members can find the 2013 Super Service Award logo next to company names in search results on AngiesList.com.
Angie's List helps consumers have happy transactions with local service professionals in more than 720 categories of service, ranging from home improvement to healthcare. More than 2 million paid households use Angie's List to gain access to local ratings, exclusive
This blog gives an update on our week at the Seminar and shares some plans for 2014!
Universal Windows Direct is ready for an AWESOME New Year! Are you?
At Universal Windows Direct we are very excited about 2014 and having our best year ever. Our goal is a lofty one, but we know that with the help of an amazing staff, awesome installers, and people like you we can do it!
Last week we were fortunate to attend the 2014 Universal Windows Direct Success Seminar. We were happy to escape the 30 below MN weather to go to the beautiful Marriot Hotel in Downtown Cleveland Ohio – where it was a balmy 20 degrees! For several days we enjoyed numerous seminars on business growth, advertising, marketing, and sales. Not only that, but we benefitted greatly from listening to the stories of our dealer partners from around the country. It is amazing how so many people with different experiences and different backgrounds can come together and help each other grow. We walked away from the meeting exhausted, but ready to put plans into action!
Now THAT is factory direct!
The last day of the seminar was a factory tour at Polaris. There is something very very cool about being in the factory and actually watching all of the men and women who work there building the product that we sell. There is an enormous amount of pride there, and we love that our business is part of what keeps them busy. We were super impressed at not only the cleanliness of the factory but the efficiency of the process. Perhaps the highlight of the tour was noticing our most recent order of window completed, and ready to be loaded. This window will be installed within the next 2 weeks!
How did Tessie do? She rocked. Our little jellyfish spent 5 days and nights with 5 different people, in 5 different houses and sleeping in 5 different beds. Playing cousins, demanding kisses every second and loving every minute of it.. She even went to a huge family birthday party so she literally spent time with everyone! Have I mentioned our blessed we are? Thank you a million times over to our community of family members who will take her in, love her and play with her until she reaches exhaustion! We missed her like crazy but we know she had fun. So here we are. Back in the office prepping for our move, consolidating our notes, and poised to put our plans in to action. Get ready to see a lot more of Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities in the coming year. Our office is nearing completion, we are planning a job fair and we excited at the possibilities.
Last but not least, if you or anyone you know is considering replacing their windows, siding, entry doors, patio doors, roofing or attic insulation give us a call! Quotes are always free and we will provide you with the information you need to make a decision along with a same day – in writing – estimate of the job. Contact us today at through our website at www.universalwindowsmn.com , email us at twincities@universalwindowsdirect.com, or call us in the office at (612) 866-2888.
Chat soon!
Author: Melissa Brager
Recent Articles: 2013 in Review
UniShield Max is the latest product development in the exclusive UniShield line of windows sold by Universal Windows Direct dealers across the nation.
UniShield Max is here!
UniShield Max is the latest product development in the exclusive UniShield line of windows sold by Universal Windows Direct dealers across the nation. In Minnesota, look no further than Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities servicing the entire Minneapolis and St. Paul Metro Area.
The UniShield Max is an enhanced replacement window that adds construction stability, strength and insulation into the actual frames and sashes. Combine it with our double pane or triple pane glass packages with argon or krypton fill and you will find yourself with one of the best windows you can buy.
Innergy comes standard with UniShield Max. Innergy is an advanced fiberglass reinforced resin insert that is specially designed to slide into window and door chambers to provide greater insulation AND greater support to your window frames. It eliminates the use of metal or aluminum as a part of the window construction; increasing the window's performance by 700 times over windows with aluminum in them.
Heat Stopper technology is another standard feature in the UniShield Max. This technology eliminates hollow chambers in the window frame and sashes by filling them. While some air circulation in the window frame is needed; when the entire chamber is empty too much air circulates and the entire outside of the frame and sash can get extremely cold. Heat stopper can keep more of that cold outside, and the additional structure it provides gives more strength to the window sashes; ensuring that your brand new windows will look brand new for years and years to come.
UniShield Max is simply a combination of the innergy feature, the heat stopper technology, our super spacer, and our energy efficient glass packages. It truly delivers a strong, long lasting window that is perfect for the Minnesota climate.
So who is the ideal customer for the UniShield Max? We believe that every homeowner who likes the no maintenance side of vinyl, and who wants to put an insulated, energy efficient window into their home is going to love the UniShield Max. Does that sound like you? Call Steve the Window Guy at today for your free, no obligation estimate!
Steve The Window Guy sells more than just windows in MN!
Author: Melissa Brager
Related Articles:
Window installers make it all happen.
Let’s face it. Deciding to get your windows replaced is a big deal. Everyone knows they have windows that they might like to get replaced when the time is right, or when they get a little worse, or when they get sick of the plastic or when they finally get paid that bonus they’ve been waiting for. When you start thinking about getting windows replaced you’re thinking about getting the windows replaced. Period.
What you’re not thinking about:
You’re not thinking about giving up a few hours of your evening to visit with a window salesperson.
You’re not thinking about the investment you’re not making in your home and how that could help with resale.
You’re not thinking about the hit to your bank account and
I’m guessing you’re not thinking about finally making the decision and then waiting 6-8 weeks to see the windows.
What you’re thinking about.
You’re thinking about GETTING THE WINDOWS INSTALLED. The end result!
The fresh clean look.
The nice grids between the panes of glass.
The nice double hung windows that tilt in for easy cleaning.
The casement window that actually cranks in.
The ability to see through that patio door that has been fogged for months.
We get it.
When it comes down to it, the installers are the ones who really make it happen. They arrive at your house with your brand new windows in their trailer. They pull out the windows you have been so excited to get rid of and before they leave at the end of the day they install all the brand new ones.
Basically, they make your dreams come true.
Now hiring: Dream fulfillers / Happiness Deliver-ers / Window Installers. We have immediate openings for experienced window installers. Must be able to work throughout the Twin Cities Metro Area and be available at least 2 days per week and up to 5 days per week. We install throughout the winter too and our spring season starts in March. If you or someone you know might be interested and available contact us today.
We need your help to make people happy throughout the Twin Cities. Call us today for more info. 612-866-2888.
Author: Melissa Brager, Universal Windows Direct, MN
Related Articles
This article is a light hearted look at why warranty matters when buying replacement windows
war·ran·ty [n. wawr-uhn-tee]
"a written guarantee given to the purchaser of a new appliance, automobile, or other item by the manufacturer or dealer, usually specifying that the manufacturer will make any repairs or replace defective parts free of charge for a stated period of time.
Warranty.
Not too subtely subtitled “how long the manufacturer expects their product to last”
True story. I have this friend who starts every day by having 2 pieces of toast. With peanut butter (and coffee, of course). One morning her whole morning was disrupted when she realized that her beloved toaster was no longer working.
So.. off to the store she went. She thought buying a toaster would be easy (aren’t they all the same?) but she quickly realized that there are lots of different options. What would she be toasting? 2 slices, 4 slices, or bagels? What color did she want? White, red, stainless steel? Did she want a reheat button? Confusing!! Should she spend more for a popular name brand? Should she just choose an American made product? Does warranty even matter?
Guess what?? She would be having the EXACT SAME decision process if she was buying windows. Everyone starts out thinking every window is the same. Then they start learning about glass package and construction and operation and options and ratings and pretty soon they get overwhelmed. Sometimes they throw up their hands and spend twice as much on a popular name brand. Sometimes they choose an American made product, and sometimes (SOMETIMES) they look at warranty.
Here is the thing. Warranty matters. Every single time on every single product you ever buy. It doesn’t matter how long you shop or how hard the buying decision is for you - even how much you spend. Warranty matters. I believe that the bigger the investment, the more the decision should be based on the warranty.
So no surprise that I also believe that when you are looking to make an investment in your home that the warranty of the product should be high on the list of things you look at. Why would you choose to spend more money on a product that you know you will need to replace in 15 or 20 years.
Given the choice which would you choose? 1) All the options you want, reasonable price, 30 year non pro-rated warranty. 2) All the options you want, up to twice as expensive, 15 year prorated warranty.
Don’t waste your money on a product with a poor warranty. Get all the options you want, spend an amount of money you are comfortable with and always check the warranty!
Call Steve the Window Guy from Universal Windows Direct and have him show you our exclusive line of windows and doors. He can work with you to determine the options, color and styles that work best with your house. Give him a chance to show you how our warranty is one of the best in the business, and how our factory direct pricing model can save you hundreds of dollars on your next project.
Author: Melissa Brager Related Articles:
Universal Windows Direct will be participating in the Father Hennepin Days Business Expo June 8, 2013 !
We have done so many Home Shows and Summer Events that we have preparing for them and packing down to a science. We bring different samples for different size booths, for example. We bring carpet to an indoor event and lots of bungee cords and weights to outdoor events so our tent doesn't blow away. When we are done packing the back of the truck is a work of art. Every single thing is in its place.
But that was before baby. She is 13 months now so she is at a more "normal" place schedule wise. This means we can take her with us to more of these summer events. So Father Hennepin Days is officially moving into a Family Fun Day that won't even feel like work! We can spend some time in the tent with Steve and then we can explore the rest of the Festival. I checked the Father Hennepin Days Event Schedule today and in addition to the Business Expo there is a Craft Fair, Carnival Rides, a Petting Zoo and a Skateboard Park... just to name a few events. We'll just bombard her senses and then she'll take a huge nap. Right? The weather is supposed to be very nice and mild so she might even get to nap in the stroller outside in the fresh air. I don't know about you, but that sounds divine to me.
That's all for now. We'll post pictures of the fun tomorrow on our Facebook page.
Oh - PS - If you are in the area we'd love for you to stop by our booth and see Steve the Window Guy! We'll have samples of windows, siding, doors and roofing, brochures, and even some coupons.
Enjoy your weekend!
Melissa Brager
Recent Blog Posts
Get better bug protection with upgraded screens
Universal Windows Direct gears up for summer
Bring out the white shoes and fire up the grill.. this weekend is the official start to Summer! This is always cause for celebration but when you've just survived 7 months of winter and have written off spring entirely, this is even better.
As a home improvement company summer means no more indoor home shows with sensible shoes and pressed shirts. Bring out the shorts and the sunglasses because we will be outside in parks, in tents, and even on the side of the road. Instead of being flanked by window and siding companies we are likely to be flanked by a liquor store, a local gym or a real estate agent. We say goodbye to packing sensible "home show" lunches and say hello to packing gallons of water and enjoying yummy food truck food. Can you say "deep fried apple pie?" I can. With a side of cinnamon ice cream, please. This year we look forward to bringing our baby to these fun summer events so she can enjoy the action and energy of the midway, and maybe even a few rides or a taste of cotton candy. And who knows, if she can help us pull in an extra lead or two all the better!
Ask any window replacement company and they will gladly tell you their installers LOVE working in the summer. Winters get slow and winters get rough and all summer does is get sunny! Yeah!!
Steve The Window Guy sells more than just windows in MN!
When we're not outside work/playing at events we've got new marketing campaigns to work on, new products to share with you, enhancements to our existing products and a new salesman to introduce to you.
On a personal note we are looking forward to being outside. I plan on going to the park, enjoying hot afternoons in the pool, and drinking lemonade with friends and watching some baseball games. I have always dreamed of having an outdoor living space... totally not practical in MN.. but I do have my outside furniture out and my grill cleaned. What else? Burger Friday is Back! Check our Facebook page every Friday for awesome and yummy burger recipes. We don't just stick to beef. You'll see some great chicken, pork, turkey and meat-free burger recipes too.
I. Am. Ready. How do YOU celebrate the beginning of Summer?
Author: Melissa Brager
Recent Posts:
Window replacement companies in the Twin Cities. Do you want to guess at how many there are? It seems like there are thousands. I can only imagine how confusing it must be for a homeowner to make a decision on which company to call for an estimate. Even when a homeowner goes to a home show to look at windows it can be overwhelming because (and I swear I am not exaggerating here) 25-50% of the vendors at some shows will sell you a window. Is it easier if you are looking for a siding or roofing contractor? I don't think so.
Remember Us?
The challenge for us is being memorable. So what can we do to become memorable? When you see us at a home show what makes you stop and talk to us? When you are surfing online for information what makes you stop on our page and explore for awhile? What can we do to help you remember us?
I overhear sales guys on the phone making calls to homeowners they just met last week. Those phone calls oftentimes start like this. "From Universal Windows Direct. Universal Windows Direct. Universal. Windows. Direct." Our name just isn't ringing any bells to them. They have looked at and talked to so many different window companies that everybody has started to sound alike. No matter how much fun they had in their home talking about their project with us, they just don't remember that the guy calling them on the phone is the one they liked. Sometimes the homeowners actually say "Hold on while I get my notes" and then they come back and say "OH HI!! We like you! Thanks for calling!"
Sure, it sounds a bit crazy but it makes sense. It is human nature. Shopping for windows can be like shopping for that perfect pair of dress pants. Do you remember the last time you ventured into the Mall looking for pants? After shopping for hours you finally decide on the perfect pair and you get ready to make your purchase. But where was that store again? What was the name of it? Suddenly every store you go in to looks the same. All the pants look the same. All the sales people sound the same. You're so overwhelmed that you don't care anymore. "These pants are fine", you tell yourself. "The price isn't what I wanted but it is fine" You just want to be done. You make the purchase and cross it off your list.
So here is my point. We have plans to make us more memorable. Big plans. Plans to make us stick in your head.. catchy plans if you will. Plans to make you smile when you see us. We want you to know that when you are looking for a window siding or door contractor we are the ones you are looking for. We don't want there to be a doubt in your head that its us. You are going to love working with us and we are going to take good care of you.
We can't wait to show you what we've been working on. Next week's blog is going to be a doozie. See you then!
Author:Melissa Brager
Window and Door Replacement Jobs can have problems. Knowing what to expect can make your job go more smoothly even if a problem is experienced.
A very VERY long time ago I worked at an amusement park. While I was there I spent a few summers interviewing teenagers for jobs - which was really just a big “realistic job preview” song and dance. It was a total “no surprises” kind of work statement and it went like this:
“You are working outside. Your uniform is shorts. When it is cold out you will need a sweatshirt. When it is hot out you will sweat. When it rains all day you will be very wet. If there is a storm, we stay open. If the storm is very very bad, we will evacuate. This is part of the job. Some days you will talk to hundreds of people. Some days you might only talk to 5 people. You will hear the exact same question repeatedly all day long. This is what you can expect"
Then I asked if they still wanted the job and if they said yes we hired them. We figured that if they knew everything that could go wrong at the beginning and were still interested that all would be fine. For the most part, it was. Some kids were surprised at how much they didn't like working in the rain, for example, but they weren't surprised that they had to work in the rain. They were prepared.
As a business owner, I think of that situation now. I understand it would be sales sabotage if our salesman sat face to face with a homeowner and listed out everything that could go wrong as they sign the contract and collect the initial investment. But at the same time, it sure would be nice if we could prepare homeowners and say something like this:
"90% of the time jobs go very smoothly, however we do expect to have some problems some of the time. Our windows are made by real people in a real factory. They are USA made and they keep people working, and towns functioning. We are proud of this. At the same time we know that mistakes happen. To help you prepare, here is a list of problems that could affect your job.
Sometimes windows get broken or screens get gouged on the truck
Sometimes an entire job is loaded on the truck, but one window is forgotten.
Sometimes a window breaks when coming off the line and has to be remade
Sometimes the weather gets nasty and installation needs to be delayed.
Sometimes an issue with an order isn’t discovered until it gets to the job site.
Sometimes an order gets measured wrong.
Sometimes an order gets placed wrong. Or Lost.
Sometimes an order gets made wrong.
Sometimes there is a misunderstanding on how the install will work.
Sometimes our installer might get sick, or have a personal emergency, or have truck or trailer problems. He is a person too, this is unavoidable."
I wonder how people would react if we did this. Would preparing them for the potential of issues make a difference? Would they shrug their shoulders in acceptance? Would they expect more issues and then be even more thrilled when their job was smooth? It's an interesting thought to consider, but I don't think we'll start doing it anytime soon.
This is the only thing we know for sure. No matter what may happen some of the time, we know that ALL OF THE TIME you want a contractor who will acknowledge the problem, empathize with your frustration and then fix it as fast as possible. We can never control the uncontrollable but we can always control our reaction, and our ability to resolve. We want your home improvement to be a home improvement. We want you to love it when it’s done so you tell all your friends.
If you are ready to start your window, siding, or door replacement project that will most likely go very smoothly (but could potentially have a surprise hiccup) call us today. Quotes are always free. (612) 866-2888.
Author: Melissa Brager, Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct, MN
Recent Articles:
Why going with your gut is best when hiring a contractor
Universal Windows Direct proudly offers 6 different interior window options for replacement windows in the Twin Cities. So if you are looking to replace your windows you can choose the colors that will be best for you in your home.
Are you someone who thinks that vinyl windows = white windows? You're not alone!
White vinyl windows can make a home look fresh and new. Some people love them. Most new construction, in fact, starts with white windows. But some homeowners fear white windows. They fear that. stark WHITE that screams out “HI! I AM A WHITE VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOW!” That fear that the windows will “scream” actually is a reason some homeowners give as to why they don’t want to replace their windows. We get it.
Your replacement windows don’t have to be WHITE. The exclusive UniShield window offers white, tan, and dark chocolate brown as well as light oak, medium oak or cherry woodgrain interiors. Your window frames can be tan if that will soften it up. They can be dark chocolate brown (mmm, like a truffle) if that matches the style of your home. They can even come in wood grains to match existing wood windows, or the surrounding trim work, cabinetry or wood floors. Would a light honey oak match well? Would a medium oak color be better? How about a deeper cherry? Perhaps a vintage pecan is a better match... No problem! We offer all of those colors.
Do all your windows have to be the same color? Nope! So if you have thought about white replacement windows in the basement to brighten things up down there but you would prefer a wood grain window on the main level; we can do that. Because all of our windows are custom made for your home we can choose the style and options of window that will work best for you, in your budget, in your home.
Call us today to get started with a free consultation. We will bring a window into your home in the color you are thinking of, and bring color samples of other options as well. We can’t wait to work with you to replace those old windows and improve the look of your home. Join homeowners across the Twin Cities who have improved the look and the value of their home with replacement windows. 612-866-2888
Author: Melissa Brager
Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct, MN
Related Blog Posts
The Richfield Home & Garden Expo is just about a week away! Once again this year, Universal Windows Direct will be there, ready to talk with residents about replacement windows, siding, front doors and entry doors. It doesn't matter if you have one window or a house full of windows, we want to work with you to start making your home warmer, more energy efficient and more comfortable for you and your family.
With a full array of window styles, options, colors and upgrades, we are confident that we can find the replacement window or door solution for every Richfield Home. Stop by our booth to see the quality of the windows and patio doors for yourself. Enjoy additional savings for signing up for a quote at the show!
Richfield is our home. You have probably seen our vehicles around town.
We have lived here for over 20 years, and we have based our business here. Of all the window companies you will see at the show, we are your Richfield Residents, ready to keep making Richfield better, one house at a time!
We would love to see you at the show. For more information visit the Richfield Patch article or review the flyer below - seen in local SUN Newspapers!
See you soon!
Melissa Brager
Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct
Visit Universal Windows Direct at a Home Show
Home Improvement can start small!
12-12-12… such a fun day for numbers! It reminds me of 11-11-11…. The day we decided NOT to get married because it was a Friday.. which made our anniversary 11-12-11. So you see why I like the number 12. But I digress.
In honor of the coolest day ever, I thought I'd highlight our favorite window upgrades.
Top 12 Upgrades for Replacement Windows with Universal Windows Direct
Foam filled main frames - let's get insulated!
Triple Pane glass - increase the energy efficiency - block out the noise
Painted exterior options in multiple colors - even black!
Wood grain interiors - to match existing woodwork in your home
Screen options - new upgraded screens give you a clearer view
Obscure glass - the opposite of a clearer view. Perfect for that bathroom where you want the light to come in but no one to see you
Tempered glass - for safety's sake
Grids and diamond patterns - jazz up the look!
Nailing fin - we can do new construction windows too
Floral view - make a window a feature in the room
Tan or brown - hey. not everyone likes white
Krypton gas - to really boost up your energy efficiency!
If you are curious to learn more about any of these options... or just want to visit with one of our awesome window salesmen, give us a call and we'd be happy to set something up.
Cheers!
Melissa Brager
Customer spotlight: Jerry and Linda.
We met Jerry and Linda at one of our outdoor events this summer. They are a couple living in a town home development. A town home development with windows in dire need of being replaced. After seeing a quick demo of our UniShield window they really liked the quality they saw and they wanted to get an estimate on replacing their windows. But…. Being in a town home they were worried about your windows conforming to the rules.
No problem.
We have worked with multiple town home communities throughout the Twin Cities to replace windows, patio doors and entry doors. We have met with town home boards to pitch our product and we have met with groups of homeowners to help them gain consensus.
What we have found is that the outside appearance of the windows is generally the determining factor in buying decisions. The town home community wants the look to remain consistent. I get it. If everyone has dark brown windows, the guy who replaces his with white stands out like a sore thumb. Similarly, if everyone has their white windows wrapped in white, but suddenly someone wraps theirs in dark green, the conformity of town home living is gone.
Our UniShield replacement windows and doors are 100% pure virgin vinyl with a smooth, streamlined exterior. Standard colors are white, tan and dark brown. Available upgrades include exterior paint colors including black, bronze and dark green, which tend to be very popular colors at town homes.
So what should you do first? Check with your town home association about the rules they have. You might get lucky and be in the same situation as Jerry and Linda. They learned that as long as they replaced their windows with WHITE 2 lite sliders, and then wrapped them in maintenance free smooth aluminum in a coordinating tan they could replace whatever they wanted. The appointment started with matching exterior wrap colors, and once we knew we could meet the requirements, we continued the discussion, and ended up replacing all of the windows in their town home. The neighbors liked how they looked so much, we ended up doing work for a few of them, too.
What is the moral of the story of Jerry and Linda? Don’t be afraid of calling us if you live in a town home. There may be a few extra hoops to jump through, but we are more than happy to do that. It is all in the name of new windows! Contact us today to get started!
Melissa Brager
Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities
Replace just a few windows at a time!
Aren't all windows factory direct?
Hello friends!
It's been a busy few weeks for everyone as we wind down October. Here is some of our great content you may have missed!
Universal Windows Direct works Fall Home ShowsHome Improvement & Remodeling Show Pictures
Did you see us at the Convention Center?
Replace your windows - just a few at a time!
Community Involvement - Pinewood Phantom Fun Run
Me and my helper at the Pinewood Fun Run
Fall Pasta Recipe: Pasta with Pumpkin and Sausage
We're on Pinterest! Let your obsession continue by checking out our boards!
Also, don't forget to visit our Facebook page to see what we're up to every day! Thanks so much for checking out our blog and enjoy this beautiful fall weekend and Happy November everybody!!
Author: Melissa Brager
We did it. We joined Pinterest. I couldn't resist. I love the idea of infusing our personalities, and our company culture into marketing windows, siding, and doors. I resisted for a long while because I couldn't fathom why anyone would visit a board full of pictures of windows. Furthermore, would anyone actually re-pin a window? Or siding? For heavens sakes no.
But - I recently read a great article about marketing small business with Pinterest and it made sense to me. We live in a city that is overflowing with home improvement companies. If you pay attention, you can literally see 10+ ads every single day from companies selling windows siding and doors. (I am working at the library today and one was sitting on the table next to me!)
So people matter. When you buy from Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities you aren't buying from a big corporate giant or box store. You are buying from Melissa and Steve Brager. You are supporting small business in your community. And.... you are getting a superior, energy efficient product at a factory direct price. That is the beauty of it.
So who are Melissa and Steve? What are they all about? Do you share any interests with them? Maybe. We have lots of different ways you can find out. Subscribe to our blog for valuable information on our products and the buying process - as well as a behind the scenes look at our business. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to get up to the minute updates on what we're up to. See what articles we have found interesting and view pictures of jobs we have done recently.
Then check out Pinterest. We have boards that feature our product, yes. We also have boards that show:
Us out working at home improvement fairs
Pictures of our life as small business owners
Burger Friday recipes
Front Door Decoration Ideas
Pumpkin Fun - because I LOVE seasonal decorating and holiday traditions
Inspirational Quotes
Small Business Marketing
I'm excited to grow our boards and keep on pinning. What kinds of things should we add? Would love to hear from you!
Melissa Brager
Recent Blog Posts:
Thanks for checking us out! Like what you see? Share it with your friends.
Review our open schedule times and schedule on your own. We’ll call you to confirm it when it comes through. Easy!
We believe it’s ok to smile - even when talking with a window guy!
Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding, and roofing. Steve and his team are experts in working with
people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 5
remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as a National Dealer of the Year
three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro.
Updating your home can be easy.
We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.
*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021
We are an exterior re-modeler focusing on replacing windows, siding,
entry doors, sliding glass patio doors, roofing, gutters, gutter
protection and attic insulation.
We are a MN licensed contractor working throughout the Twin Cities Metro.
MN License # BC635019
Brager Remodeling, LLC DBA Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities DBA Steve the Window Guy
