Replacement Windows: Now or Later?

Replacement Windows: To replace Now or later? That is the question.

People like you ask us all the time… do I need to replace my windows now or should I wait until later?  How do I know if now the right time is?  I don’t want to regret my decision; but I have a lot of projects going on right now.   Should I do my ___________________ (insert project here) first, or replace my windows first?

If you listen to any window salesman talk he will say NOW NOW NOW!    Every radio commercial you hear and every advertisement you see might make it look like you absolutely need to drop everything and get your windows replaced immediately.  

Guess what?   You don’t.  There are situations with every homeowner in every home where you can wait to replace them.    Maybe your windows are old, but still seem to be working just fine.   Maybe the seal has failed but the window is in a back bedroom that sits empty.   Maybe starting with the windows in your main living space would make you more comfortable.   Maybe you really WANT new windows to make a space look fresh but realistically you know they aren’t dire and you can save money by waiting. Here is the thing.   Maybe you’re right.  

Download our FREE infographic on “Replacement Windows:  Now or later?“  and see for yourself. 

When you’re ready, contact us.  We’ll give you a free, no obligation quote,  talk to you about interest free financing AND even introduce our Guaranteed Price Program.

Author: Melissa Brager

Related Article:

9 Questions to ask before you hire a contractor

Universal Windows Direct Earns Angie's List Super Service Award 2013!

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

Replacement Windows: Twin Cities Home Show Window Company

Your mind is spinning.

You spent hours in the Metrodome over the weekend talking to vendor after vendor after vendor about every project on your wish list.       You looked at so many pictures that your window replacement project suddenly turned into a bathroom remodel, a new deck, and some custom roll-outs for your kitchen.  You bought salsa mix, a new pillow and some new sheets.   You gathered business cards and company literature like crazy and once your bag was full you decided you were done.    As you walked up the 79 steps (or so) to get out of the Dome you started wishing you had also bought a hot tub or a sauna to soothe your aching muscles.

But the instant you stepped outside and that biting cold hit your face you were back in reality.   Windows.   All that dreaming was fun but the fact remains that you still have that super drafty window in the living room by your favorite chair.  And don't forget that window in your bedroom that is not only completely fogged up but actually has frost in between the panes of glass right now.  You wish you would have set appointments to get it priced out.   Back to reality.

So here you are sorting through information and looking up companies online.   We thank you for stopping in our booth and we thank you again for looking us up online today.  Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities, is a family run business offering the exclusive UniShield line of windows and doors.

1. We offer a foam filled main frame for extra insulation

2. Super spacer is standard in the glass package for longevity in window performance.

3. Options are available for every home and budget - including white, tan, and brown windows with maintenance free wood grain interiors.

So if you are a homeowner looking for replacement windows in the Twin Cities, contact us today and get started with a free quote.  In as little as 6 weeks you can be enjoying your new, energy efficient windows.

Considering a new patio door and/or entry door?  No problem!     Quotes are always free, and you'll quickly see that the price does reflect when you buy direct.

Thanks for checking us out and we'll talk to you soon!

Author:  Melissa Brager

Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities

Tips for Visiting a Home Show

Factory Direct Pricing on Windows

UniShield

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

Universal Windows Direct Joins Pinterest!

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:

Community Involvement

Tips on Visiting Home Improvement Shows

Replace just a few windows at a time

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

Replacement Windows: 5 Reasons Why Choosing Replacement Windows is Like Choosing a Wedding Dress

Curious, aren't you?

Here is the thing. I am behind on my blogging because I have been caught up in the excitement of planning our wedding!!   We are celebrating with 200 people we love and are planning the whole big party in 5 weeks. Crazy, maybe, but fun.

As I get ready for my final dress fitting it comes to me.   Choosing replacement windows and choosing a wedding dress actually have quite a bit in common.

1. Choose your perfect look.   Are you thinking traditional, modern, or purely functional?    Do you want to stick with white or something more interesting like a color?  What options do you have to choose from?

2. Know your deadline and order in advance!   Wedding dresses can take up to 6 months to come in but you can get your custom vinyl replacement windows installed in as little as 6 weeks.   Family coming to town?  Hosting for the holidays?  No problem. Call today to get started!

3. Order the right size!   Doesn't it make more sense to order the exact size you need so you don't have to force fit the product, or worse, pay for the labor of unnecessary alterations later?  Our windows are all custom sizes for your convenience!  Not only that, but with a custom fit they are guaranteed to reduce drafts and keep your family  more comfortable in your home!

4. Think about how you want to complete your final look.   With your dress you think about shoes, jewelry and veils.  With your windows you consider trimwork, painting or staining, and new custom window treatments.   It's really the same.

5. Show it off!!   Once everything is decided and paid for and complete don't you want to show it to everyone you know?   Take pictures!!  Post them on Facebook!

See?   Replacement windows and wedding dresses actually have more in common than you think!   While we can't help you choose your wedding dress, we can certainly help you make a replacement window decision.   Quotes are always free and we'd love to visit with you.   Contact us today!

Busy Busy... What has Universal Windows Direct been up to?

It's been a month, dear reader.    Sadly we have allowed ourselves to get behind in our blogging but do not worry, we did not forget about you!    We are back at it and ready to get caught up.     Business has been good, our personal lives have been good, we've just been running like crazy. 

We have successfully finished our summer show and event season.    Gone are the days of hanging in the tent, hoping for good weather overnight, and searching out our next great meal from a food truck.   I think that Taco Cielo from the Dakota County Fair was my favorite this year!   Mmmmmm!!!

Our fall and spring home show season gets underway soon and we have all of our dates finalized.   Sometimes I feel like we're a rock bank booking our next great tour.   We always have free or discounted tickets for shows so definitely check our website or call us if you're interested in enjoying a home show and vising your favorite window company!

Speaking of home shows, we are moving forward with some awesome new displays for our larger products.   They will debut in 2012!

New product options!   Our UniShield siding has come out with new colors to provide you with even more options for customizing your home and creating the look you've dreamed of.     Our UniShield fiberglass entry doors have just release new styles that include 3/4 glass on the front.   A nice way to get the look on the front of your home "just right". 

We are growing!   We have brought on another installer and are currently looking to grow our sales department.   If you know anyone looking to get some sales experience, send them our way. 

All work and no play?  No way!!   We have a vacation scheduled in December and are looking forward to our annual sales meeting in January.    Not only that, but with fall TV underway, we are glad to "see"  all of our old friends.    Hey, there is nothing wrong with some quality couch time, right?

Beyond all of that, we are happily selling high quality, energy efficient windows, siding, and doors at factory direct prices to homeowners all across the Twin Cities.    To learn more about our products or to schedule a free, no obligation estimate, contact us today.

UWD MN at a Summer Events: A behind the scenes look at UWD working outdoor events

Raise your hand if you've been to a Fair or Outdoor Festival this year.    Raise both hands if you've been to more than one.   Now smile because you feel silly with both your arms in the air.

Summer in MN is the best thing on Earth.  Every weekend you can find a summer festival in a local city,   Celebrations center around everything from raspberries to potatoes to stock cars to just the city itself.   No matter what they are celebrating you are almost guaranteed to find yummy food, activities for kids, a midway, a live band, a car show and a business fair.

Show and event marketing is a huge part of our marketing plan at Universal Windows Direct MN.    Throughout the summer (June - August) we spend the majority of our weekends working in a booth to promote our business, and our awesome line of UniShield windows and doors.  Needless to say, we have it down to a science.

We can go from everything in the truck to "open for business" in about 20 minutes.

We have the perfect size cooler that ensures we drink a gallon of water a day.

We have perfected the "show food" shopping trip to keep us eating and snacking right in the midst of full on fair food temptation.

We have made events into networking and social events.  Building relationships and enjoying the connections with familiar faces and other local business owners.  Some days would get very long without our friends.

We have a section in our closets dedicated to UWD wear - which ensures that no matter how many days the event is, and no matter what the weather has in store for us...  we will be branded.  In layers.

Last but not least, we know that working these summer shows are different than working home improvement expos.  We know you didn't head out to the fair with a window replacement project in mind.   So we show you our windows, we give stickers to your kids, we answer your questions and if you don't want to schedule a free estimate, we'll give you a brochure to take home.   We know that when you're ready, you'll call us.

Thanks to every single person this summer who stopped by our tent to talk with us. Days can get long and we can get a little crazy.

Thanks to previous customers who made a point to visit.  Thanks to all the show sponsors who make us feel appreciated and welcome, and thanks to that girl at Pride with the pink and purple pigtails who bounced in to give us a smile because we looked lonely.   It isn't easy to work those events, but it's worth it.   We love our company and we  love offering such a great product at a factory direct price.

If you're looking to get a free quote on replacement windows, sliding glass patio doors, front entry doors or vinyl siding, contact us today.   We'd be happy to stop out.

Windows at the Fair?: Top Questions asked about Windows at the Dakota County Fair

How many replacement windows and siding companies are at the Fair?  If you are anything like me you're freaking out about the fact that its mid-August.    County Fairs mean that summer is coming to a close.   As much fun as we have looking at the animals, watching the demo derbies, eating the fried food and looking at all the cool stuff in the exhibitor buildings we can't deny that school is around the corner, and winter isn't far behind.

As a window girl the County Fairs mean that I basically leave home for a week.  I pack fruit, healthy snacks and sandwiches so I am less tempted by all the Fair Food.  (If you've ever met me, you know this doesn't work very well.)  I bring a book for the hours where no one is around, and I look forward to meeting my neighbors.    I also do my best to tell interested fair -goers about our awesome UniShield windows and doors and answer their questions the best I can.

After 5 days and 55 hours at the Fair,  I have compiled this list of Top Questions asked at the Universal Windows Direct Booth at the Dakota County Fair.

Q: Is that a wood window?      A:   No, the UniShield window is a vinyl replacement window.    We are excited to offer three different wood grain finishes that give you the look of wood to match your cabinets, floors or woodwork, but in a 100% maintenance free vinyl finish.

Q:  Are these replacement windows or new construction?   A: Both.   The majority of the windows we sell are replacement windows, but we do also do  also sell to remodelers and we can order any window you need with a nailing fin.

Q: What if I want to install the window myself?   A: We do sell windows directly to individuals and contractors.   However, installing windows isn't for amateurs.   If you're not totally comfortable installing a window please allow us to install it for you.

Q: What is your warranty?  A:   Universal Windows Direct offers the double lifetime warranty on windows.   This means that your new windows will be covered for as long as you are in your house, and 30 years to the next homeowner.   This is a non-prorated warranty.   We stand behind the quality of our windows!

Q: Do you make awning windows? A: Yes.   We can build any style window you need.  Double hungs, sliders, casements, awnings, hoppers, garden windows, bays and bows.

Q: Where are the cows?   A:  The did leave for a night for a barn cleaning, but no worries...  the next afternoon we had a huge cow trailer parade and they were all returned, safe and sound.

The cows are back!

Q: My window is  really weird size.   Can you do custom sizes?   A: Yes!  All of our windows are custom ordered to fit your rough opening.   So bring us your weirdest size window and we'll replace it.

To everyone who stopped by our booth at the fair, thank you.   I appreciated the chance to tell you about our great windows. If it was a particularly slow time of the day, I appreciate the visit.   If you have any additional questions, or are interested in a free quote, contact us today.

Replacement Windows: How replacment windows are the same and different

Isn't a windows just a window?   Let's clear this up once and for all.   Yes and No.    Every window you see is both the same and different.   As you're evaluating windows for your home, focus on what is different.  Focus on the construction and the quality of the window See below.

Not all windows are created equal.

Windows all have the following things in common!

• They all open and close, letting the fresh air into the house.  (unless they are painted shut or the weights are shot so they can't stay open on their own)

• They all have glass in them allowing you to see outside.  (unless the glass is broken and the window has been taped shut)

• They keep the bugs out.  (unless the screen is damaged)

• They let the light in.   (and sometimes the UV rays too, which is why your sofa is faded).

• They sit in frames in your house.  (Sometimes they sit crookedly in the frames because the wood is rotting)

I think that is it.    Now here are what windows have that make them different

1. Windows are built with materials ranging from wood to fiberglass to aluminum to vinyl

2. Windows may have one, two , or three panes of glass.

3. The glass package may be spaced using metal, aluminum, or structural foam.

4. The glass package may be insulated with nothing at all, argon gas or krypton gas.

5. The "fill rate" of the insulating gas varies by manufacturer.  Yes, argon gas is nice but would you rather have a window with 50% or 98% fill rate of gas?  (hint:  this is not a trick question)

6. The window sash and frame may be glued or screwed together or it could be fused together for ultimate strength.

7. Window glass may be clear or glazed with multiple coats of Low E, which is basically sunscreen for the glass; protecting your living space from the harmful UV rays.

8. We all have a window that sits behind furniture.   Some windows require two hands and a little strength to open and close.  Some require just a finger.  Construction matters.

9. Warranty is essentially how long the manufacturer expects the window to last.   Some windows that look exactly the same will fail after 3 years.   Some will not fail after 5o years.   Which would you rather have?  (again, not a trick question)

10. Finally, we have price.  You can get a poorly made cheap window for anywhere from $189 to $900.   Or you can get an excellent high quality window that will last for anywhere from $500-$1000.   Don't be fooled by price.   Choose a high quality window at a factory direct price and you'll be glad you did.

If you've been dreaming about replacing windows in your home and you've been overwhelmed by the options on the market, we understand.    Contact us today for a personal consultation in your home and a free quote.

Window Terminology Guide: Introducing Window Terms from Universal Windows Direct

Hello friends!

If you're anything like me then you've started a new job in a new industry and felt like everyone was talking a different language.   It's no different when you're shopping for something you've never shopped for before.

What kind of window is it?  A crank out?

What is the difference between a bay window and a bow window?

Argon or Krypton?

What does glazing mean?

Don't let a window salesmen overwhelm you with technology, terms and details.   Check out this easy to understand glossary of window terms and help get yourself to a place where you feel comfortable.

Did I miss anything?  ( I bet I did!)  Let me know!

To schedule your free consultation on replacement windows, siding, or doors from Universal Windows Direct, contact us today!

Window Terminology Guide: Introducing Window Terms from Universal Windows Direct

Hello friends!

If you're anything like me then you've started a new job in a new industry and felt like everyone was talking a different language.   It's no different when you're shopping for something you've never shopped for before.

What kind of window is it?  A crank out?

What is the difference between a bay window and a bow window?

Argon or Krypton?

What does glazing mean?

Don't let a window salesmen overwhelm you with technology, terms and details.   Check out this easy to understand glossary of window terms and help get yourself to a place where you feel comfortable.

Did I miss anything?  ( I bet I did!)  Let me know!

To schedule your free consultation on replacement windows, siding, or doors from Universal Windows Direct, contact us today!

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "A"

Air Chambers

Spaces built into a window frame that makes the window stronger and more energy efficient.  UniShield windows offer a foam fill in the air chambers for additional insulation.

Air Infiltration

Measures how much air can get through a window or door.   The lower the number, the better.

Aluminum Spacer

A window spacing option used in lower end windows.  Tends to conduct temperatures more from the outside to the inside and generally comes with a lower warranty.

Argon Gas

Common window insulator.  It is nontoxic, colorless, odorless and tasteless gas.  It is 6 times denser than air, and drastically reduces heat loss between the panes of glass.

Awning Window

Window style commonly used in basements, porches and spaces close to the ceiling.  Window operates like a  casement except  it is hinged at the top and always swings out.

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

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.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "B"

Balance

A mechanical device (normally spring-loaded) used in single- and double-hung windows as a means of counterbalancing the weight of the sash during opening and closing.  UniShield windows come with a true balance system, and no weights for a cleaner look and for consistent performance.

Bay Window

An arrangement of three or more individual window units, attached so as to project from the building at various angles. In a three-unit bay, the center section is normally fixed, with the end panels operable as double-hung or casement windows.

Bow Window

A rounded bay window with 5 or more sashes – often all of them open.

Building Permit

A requirement in most cities to ensure the installation meets state building code requirements but also they always ALWAYS look to make sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are installed and working. .

 For more information on window terminology, and to get your free quote on replacement windows from Steve the Window Guy click the button below.

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.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "D"

Double Casement

Style of window where two individual casements are mulled together.

Double glazing

In general, two panes of glass separated by a spacer and air space within an opening to improve insulation against heat transfer and/or sound transmission. In factory-made double glazing units, the air between the glass sheets is thoroughly dried and the space is sealed airtight, eliminating possible condensation and providing superior insulating properties.

Double-hung window

A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame, in which both the upper and lower halves can be slid up and down.  Sashes also tilt in for easy cleaning. A counterbalance mechanism usually holds the sash in place.

Double pane glass

Two panes of glass separated by a window spacer, creating the sash of the window.  UniShield replacement windows come in double pane and triple pane options.

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

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.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "E"

Egress Window

Is a law that specifies that a window opening must be able to open wide enough for a person to get out or a firefighter to get in.    MN requires egress windows in every room used as a bedroom.

Energy Star

ENERGY STAR is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency.

Exterior Stop

The removable part of the window that holds the glass or panel in place when looking at the window from the outside.   Also called outside stops.

Exterior Wrap

Finishing option where the outside of the window and the exterior stops are wrapped in aluminum.   Wrap may be smooth or textured and comes in a variety of colors to add visual interest to the room.

Extrusion

The process of producing vinyl shapes by forcing heated material through an orifice in a dye. For example, our windows are all extruded so the entire window starts as one color… only changing if you choose an upgrade to a wood interior or a painted exterior. 

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

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.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "H"

Heat Gain

The transfer of heat from outside to inside by means of conduction, convection, and radiation through all surfaces of a house.  Reducing this makes your home more energy efficient.

Heat Loss

The transfer of heat from inside to outside by means of conduction, convection, and radiation through all surfaces of a house.  Reducing this makes your home more energy efficient.

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

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.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "I"

Insert Window

A window that does not require altering the opening of the home, or re-framing the window space.   Insert windows are installed in the existing opening as is and then re-insulated.   Also referred to as “pocket” windows or “replacement windows”

Insulating Glass Unit

Two or more panes of glass separated by a spacer and hermetically sealed to form a single glazed unit with one or more air spaces in between.

Insulating Value

See U-factor.

For more information on window terminology, and to get your free quote on replacement windows from Steve the Window Guy, click the button below.

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.