Be Confident Hiring A Contractor

Replacing windows, siding, doors, and roofing is a scary idea for a lot of people.   It can be scary if you've never done it before and you don't know where to start.  It can even more scary if you have done it before... but had a bad experience.   Guess what?  It doesn't have to be.  Knowing the right questions to ask when you're hiring a contractor is a great first step in a successful home improvement.  Not only that, but feeling confident in your decision and knowing that your contractor is professional will give you the peace of mind you need. 

Steve the Window Guy, with Universal Windows Direct MN, can help.   Download this free eBook today and get started.   You'll be glad you did!   We would love the opportunity to earn your business.  Call us at 612-866-2888 to schedule a free, no obligation estimate.  Or, contact us via email and we'll call you to schedule.   Happy home improvements!

Author:  Melissa Brager

Universal Windows Direct, MN

Now Hiring: Universal WIndows Direct is Hiring!

Job Fair participants will be interviewed for positions that interest them. So if you are motivated, excited to work and eager for a new opportunity... tell us. Where do you want to work?

Universal Windows Direct is excited to announce a hiring job fair this Tuesday, February 4, 2014.   Job Fair participants will be interviewed for positions that interest them.   So if you are motivated, excited to work and eager for a new opportunity... tell us.    Where do you want to work?

Inside homes:  Selling products.  Running in home sales appointments to educate homeowners on our products, talk to them about their home improvement needs and sell them what they are looking for.   Must be able to learn and execute a proven selling system.

In the public:  Starting conversations with strangers.   Approaching people you don’t know.   Asking them questions.  Listening.   Talking to them about our company and our products.   Asking them to schedule an in home estimate.  Must be willing and ready to take rejection.

On the phone:  Contacting our customers on the phone to schedule appointments.  Confirming appointments.   Rescheduling appointments.  Reaching out to share new products with them.   May include calling to set appointments with people who have given us their information online or in our booth at home shows.

Outside homes: Installing products.   Talking with homeowners at the beginning of the install, or as surprises emerge during the install.  Focusing your time on removing and replacing their windows, doors, patio doors, siding or roofing.   Must be skilled at problem solving and be someone who is truly proud of a job well done.

Reserve your interview time today by calling Melissa at 612-866-2888  or contact us through our website.   Walk in attendees are welcome.

Tour our new office and meet Steve the Window Guy!

Steve The Window Guy sells more than just windows in MN!

Happy New Year from Universal Windows Direct

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

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Introducing UniShield Max

What is Innergy?

Do I want Heat Stopper in my Windows?

Innergy: Introducing Innergy in all UniShield Replacement Windows

This blog introduces Innergy rigid thermal reinforcement for Unishield replacement windows.

Innergy technology has arrived!   The UniShield vinyl replacement windows, offered exclusively by Universal Windows Direct Dealers across the country now offer Innergy as the latest must have upgrade.   What is it?  It 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.

Why is Innergy better?

1. Thermal Break and Energy Performance:  Think of Innergy as a secret weapon against wasted energy.   By providing a strong thermal break in your frames it makes sure that you stay as comfortable in your home as you deserve to be.   Not only that, but it provides another layer of protection against indoor condensation that can build up.

2. Strength.   The Innergy composite provides strength and structural reinforcement in your window or door frames. It also provides a superior impact performance – keeping your home safer in extreme weather situations.

3. Innergy is green.   Inside and out.  As a soy based resin component it is an environmentally safe green product.  It is plant based, made of renewable products and fully made without the use of styrene or peroxides.

Simply put, better construction equals a better window.  Isn't that what you want?

Contact Steve the Window Guy from Universal Windows Direct for your free, no obligation estimate of UniShield replacement windows with Innergy.   He can come out to your home, talk to you about your project, and provide a free -  hands on demonstration of what Innergy looks like.  We are confident that after you see this amazing technology for yourself, you won't consider buying replacement windows without it!

Author:  Melissa Brager

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Heat Stopper Technology: UniShield Windows Now Offer Heat Stopper Technology

This blog provides a brief overview of the Heat Stopper Technology found in the exclusive UniShield line of Windows from Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities

The heat stopper technology, as shown in a window sill

Heat Stopper technology.   It’s one of the latest enhancements to the exclusive UniShield line of replacement windows!    We know you have so many options when choosing a brand of replacement windows for your home; and we are confident that the heat stopper technology is going to make you love the UniShield windows even more!

What is heat stopper technology?  Simply put, it is technology that will stop the heat from escaping your home, keeping you more comfortable all winter long.  Put another way,  It is an ENVIRONMENTAL GREEN™  polyurethane foam-filled window frame and sash.

Replacement windows with heat stopper technology will provide you with increased energy savings all year.   This is because windows with heat stopper actually have an increased level of thermal performance.  They stop any cold air from circulating inside a hollow frame, which would cool down the overall window unit.  Stopping that cold air keeps the window warmer.  The performance of the heat stopper technology will lower the window’s U-value and increase the R-value.    Savvy homeowners know that better ratings equal better investments and lower heating and cooling costs.  The UniShield line of replacement windows can do both.

Heat Stopper technology is environmentally safe.   It provides a higher energy efficiency rating.   And it’s available exclusively in the UniShield window offered by Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities.  Take advantage of our factory direct pricing and start saving  money this winter!

What are you waiting for?  Contact us today for an in home demonstration and free, no obligation estimate.     We will show you samples of the windows and you can see the benefits of the heat stopper with your own eyes.

Author:  Melissa Brager, Universal Windows Direct, MN

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Home Improvement Projects: Top Home Improvement Projects for Fall

No matter which of these projects is your top priority, Universal Windows Direct, MN is here to help you . Call us today at 612-866-2888 for a free, no obligation estimate.

Fall Home Improvement Projects.   Fall.  Did I just say Fall?

It doesn’t matter if you like it or not, it’s here.    Say goodbye to summer.  Pack up your beach bags and put the sunscreen away.  I will miss the feeling of the hot sun on my face and the spontaneous trips to the beach more than anyone.  BUT…   I also love fall.   What can I say?  I am a Minnesotan through and through.

I love the changing leaves and the cool mornings.  I love anything cooked with apple and pumpkin.   I love sweatshirts with hoods and fall TV and decorating the house for all the holidays.   I love cooking  comfort food.   I love planning family Halloween costumes and starting to think about holiday gift giving.  But enough about me.

For lots of people fall is also the harsh reality that winter is right around the corner.  And every home improvement project that was put off during the lovely summer is now a priority once again.   So I ask you this,  what is your fall home improvement project?

1. Attic insulation?    Stop letting all that energy escape through your attic.   If you feel like you're put off attic insulation too long already, this is your year.  It will make an amazing difference to the  comfort of your home.

2. Gutter Topper!   Stop wasting your time cleaning the gutters!  Gutter topper is less expensive that you think and with all the time you save not cleaning your gutters, you can install even more holiday lights!

3. If you're concerned about your roof – have someone take a look at it.  Replacing a bad roof before winter will give you peace of mind against ice dams and water leaks.

4. Is your front door drafty?  Is the sill rotted away so you have one of those crazy draft stoppers to keep the wind out?  Let’s replace it.  We have a variety of front door styles available  - from the very basic to the very ornate.  We are confident we have the style of door and the price point that will work for your house.  Plus, with our composite threshold, it is guaranteed never to rot so you can throw that draft stopper away once and for all.

5. Storm windows are a pain.   Replace windows with a double or triple pane glass for a higher energy efficiency rating and eliminate the need for storm windows.   Start with getting the worst windows  replaced now and do the rest in the spring.  100% of homeowners who replace their windows are amazed at what a difference the new ones make.   Rooms are instantly warmer.  The fresh look of the new windows makes the rooms look newer, too.

No matter which of these projects is your top priority, Universal Windows Direct is here to help you .   Call us today for a free, no obligation estimate.   We offer financing programs  for qualified buyers and get your home improvemnts done within 8 weeks.   Don’t delay!  Call Steve The Window Guy at Universal Windows Direct today to get started!  612-866-2888

Author:  Melissa Brager, Operations Manager

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Hello Summer!: Universal Windows Direct MN is excited 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

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New Year - New Start: Universal Windows Direct Resolutions

Part of me thinks that New Year's Day is a silly holiday. If you aren't a football fan there really isn't anything to DO. There aren't specific New Year's Day foods, or traditions or activities. It is really just a day to sleep in and re-evaluate your life, your plans, and move forward with a fresh start.

So what are your resolutions? Are they fitness related? Relationship related? Career focused? Home Improvement focused? More importantly, how will you know that you've achieved them? Is someone else holding you accountable? Are you checking in with yourself? Are you writing them down?

I actually started to write them down, then I realized they are always the same. So this year I'm going to do monthly resolutions. THIS month we have a few weekends consumed by Home Improvement shows, so I will focus on buying and packing healthy food for us to eat while we are working. I will embrace the crock pot. =)

The baby, I am certain, will focus on cutting teeth and crawling.

The business will focus on having a great January. We will smile and greet you when you visit us at the show. We will give you great service and will offer show discounts. We will continue our plans to market our business in a bigger and better way. We will seek constant improvement. Little by little. Day by day. Year by Year.

Are you along for the ride? Hope so. See you soon.

Melissa Brager, Operations Manager Universal Windows Direct, MN

Window Wrap Up: Universal Windows Direct Updates

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

Universal Windows Direct, MN

Free Quotes and Current Specials

Community Involvement: Pinewood Fun Run

Most weekends you will find us at a home improvement shows or remodeling expos.    But some weekends we get to participate in events that are even more fun...   like the Phantom Fun Run for Pinewood Elementary  in Inver Grove Heights.  The Phantom Fun Run is a family activity the benefits the Pinewood Elementary school.  Every year families come out to support their school by running in this fun event.   Not signed up yet?  No problem!  You can sign up on race day!

Here is the schedule for the morning:

8:00 AM     Race Day Registration.  Sponsor tables available for viewing.

8:15-8:45     Eagan Police Dog, Badger, will be providing a demo.

9:00 AM     Kids ¼ mile race

9:15 AM     Kids ½ mile race

9:30 AM     5K Run/Walk

Universal Windows Direct is a platinum sponsor this year so we will be there at a with a table set up with product samples and brochures.  Since it will be a cold morning, we will be with the other sponsors inside the school gym.   Stop out to meet me and the baby, get a quick product demo or get any questions answered that you may have.   Of course we will have coupons as an incentive for in home estimates for window or door replacement as well.

Interested in participating in the run?  Click here for more information

Author:  Melissa Brager

Universal Windows Direct, MN

Shop Replacement Windows at a Home Improvement Show

Windows, Siding AND Doors!

Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities works home improvement shows and expos throughout the Minneapolis and St. Paul Metro area.   It doesn't matter if we are in a huge convention hall, driving in a parade, or sitting in a tent at an outdoor event.   We love to display our great product!

Here are just a few examples!

Hey Steve!

Looking for a new Entry Door?

Universal Windows Direct offers Wood Grain Vinyl Interiors

Wave at us in a local parade!

Entry Doors and Patio Doors? You bet!

View all of our available colors in windows, siding, and exterior wraps.

Dreaming of a bay window?

Factory Direct Windows: Aren't All Windows Factory Direct?

Window replacement can be a tricky business.  We work a lot of different events and home improvement shows to show our product and talk to homeowners.   I am always surprised when someone walks up to me and says “Universal Windows Direct…. What does that mean?”.  “Well,  it is the name of our company.   We are part of a national group of dealers that offer an exclusive product.  We buy directly from the factory and pass the savings on to you.”   Then the next question comes.  “Doesn’t everybody buy direct?”

Actually, no.   I mean, every window is purchased from some place, but each time it moves from the factory and touches someone else’s hands, the price goes up.   When you buy windows you are involving yourself in one of a few different scenarios.

1)          You are buying from a contractor who is buying from a supply house who bought them from the factory.   The factory just made a bunch of windows and if the supply yard or big box store happened to have them in the size you needed the contractor bought them and resold them to you.   And the price reflects his markup as well as the supply yard markup.   You can see the price getting higher, can’t you?  (Cha-ching!)

2)     You are buying from a big box store because they have a great sale going on.  I bet.   It is no secret that retail markups to consumers are extraordinary.  Constant sales and deep discounts only prove this to you.   Not only that, but even a brand name at a box store can be a lower end version of that brand.   It’s like buying brand name women’s clothing at a low end retail outlet.   The tag might be the same (or close) but you the quality just isn’t there.

3)     Or, you could buy your window from a brand representative who does work directly with the factory.  Every.  Single.  Day.   That’s how it works at Universal Windows Direct.  Not only do we have an exclusive product that no one else in the Twin Cities offers, but over 90% of our business is selling that product.   The volume of work we do, combined with the volume of our group  of dealers throughout the country allows to keep the  costs way down.   The price reflects when you buy direct. Seriously.

So how do you know?   Ask where your new window is right now.   If it is somewhere stacked up with all the other windows just waiting for you to choose it  (like the last Christmas tree on Christmas Eve)  it isn’t factory direct.   It’s warehouse direct.

The price reflects when you buy direct!

When you buy windows from Universal Windows Direct our sales representative discusses the styles, colors and options that you want in your home.   Once the decision is made, we have a trained installer come to your home to get an exact measurement of the size of your replacement window, and then the window order is sent to the factory to be built for you.    It literally has your name put on the window the second it comes off the line.   Here is a window recently made for the Peterson family.   Personally, I think that is very cool.   Higher quality, exactly what you want, the perfect size for the opening in your home.   At a lower price.   What more do you want? Get started today.

Melissa Brager

Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct, MN

Other Articles you might find interesting:

Why all windows are the same, and different

Why your windows may be fogging up

Why customers love Universal Windows Direct