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 MoreImagine sitting at the table with your spouse and the window salesman when you get the question... "Do you want double pane or triple pane glass?" ACK!! I don't know! Panic! What do I want? What do I need? HELP!
If you're going to replace your windows you want to choose the window that is right for you and glass package is a big part of that. The decisions you need to make about glass package are both panes of glass and type of insulating gas. But how are you supposed to know what is right? This blog will give you a few things to think about as you make that decision.
Decision #1:Is double pane enough or would triple pane be better? Here are some things to think about. Is your home exposed to lots of wind? Do you live by a busy road? Are you near a school with lots of bus traffic? Do you have airport noise? If so, the triple pane upgrade is a great option because it can really reduce outside noise. Are you just sick of being cold and you want the most energy efficient window possible? With an extra pane of glass and a second insulating chamber the triple pane window will give you a higher energy rating than a double pane. Not only that, but the overall glass width is typically wider with triple pane so it provides lots of room in the glass to fill with insulating argon or krypton gas. All of that said, in reality, the majority of windows we sell are double pane glass.
Decision #2: "Do you want Argon or Krypton?" Both are odorless, non-toxic gasses used in window construction. They are the gasses that hang out between the outer and inner panes of glass to insulate the unit and slow down the outside air temps from getting inside. Argon gas is the most common insulating gas. Krypton gas is more dense, more energy efficient and more expensive. You can get argon or krypton gas in either the double pane or the triple pane.
So what is the different, really? Just cost? Nope. Should we dive deep into numbers for a second? Energy Star rated windows for MN require that the U-Value is .26 or below. For a double hung window, double pane windows with argon are .26 and triple pane with Krypton are at a .17. (The lower the number the better). So there is absolutely a difference in the glass package you choose. As you make your decision you need to know if the energy efficiency and overall glass package performance is the most important to you, or if budget is. Krypton gas in a triple pane is far and away the nicest window we have, and it is also the most expensive.
Finally, your return on investment is another part of your decision. How long will you live in your house? Is the plan to move in 3-5 years or are you making improvements to your forever house? Upgrades to windows are an investment that will absolutely pay for themselves in energy savings and comfort. Butif you are moving in a few years will you get enough of that investment back? Maybe not. Will the upgrades be awesome selling features? For sure. Will they be enough of a selling feature to command a higher asking price? Not necessarily.
Glass package is just one of the many options you have when choosing your replacement windows.
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.
Author: Melissa Brager
Good Stuff? Check out some of our other recent blog posts!
1.
2.
3.
Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is owned and operated in Bloomington, MN by Steve and Melissa Brager. Steve and his team are experts at working with people just like you to create a plan for updating and enhancing your home exterior to create beauty, warmth and the curb appeal you dreamed about; at a price within your budget. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted the company to the 16th remodeler in the Nation*. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints and have won the Angie's Super Service Award 5 consecutive years. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of The Year three different times for his hard work and dedication. Updating your home can be easy. Contact us today!
*Source: 2017 Qualified Remodeler Top 500 list
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
Now is the time to get your patio door replaced with Universal Windows Direct.
Patio door replacement. Amazing when it happens, but not exactly something most people look forward to. It just doesn’t seem fun, right? It seems like all winter when the door is closed and there is 15 feet of snow piled up on the other side of it you can forget all about it. The door is just one with the house, keeping the snow out and perhaps making you wistful about warm spring days on the deck or hot summer afternoons by the pool.
Vinyl Patio Door
Not only that, but in the winter there are more fun things to spend your money on. Like gifts for the holidays, entertaining, and winter vacations. Or your windows. (There is nothing better than replacing a drafty window with an air tight window in the dead of winter). Hardly anyone replaces their patio door in the winter.
Spring is really the best time to replace your patio door. Winter is melting away, it is starting to warm up outside and summer is right around the corner. You start thinking about summer but it isn’t actually here yet, so you have time to get the door replaced. You haven’t opened that door for the first time to realize, with dread, that it didn’t magically get more awesome over the long winter. The door still sticks. You still have to fight with the screen door to get it to open. There is still that hole at the edge of the screen from when your neighbor tried to walk through it. The wood frame is still moldy. It might even be more moldy now, not that you look at it. And look at the top of the frame. Is it actually rotted through and sagging? Great. The entire door is basically an eyesore. And you still don’t like it.
Let’s replace it. Once and for all, let’s get it replaced for you. Sick of the mold? Our exclusive UniShield patio door comes in 100% pure virgin vinyl. It will not mold. Concerned about color? The doors come in white, tan, or dark brown vinyl. We even have three different wood grain interiors that are all maintenance free. Concerned you have an odd sized door? We offer standard and custom sizes! Looking for quality? With fusion welding on the frame and on the door you know it is a solid product. Add a foam filled frame for greater insulation value and a warm edge spacer to keep the entire door warmer. Have a pesky pet? Upgrade to a durable and longer lasting pet screen!
As always, enjoy factory direct pricing and the option to have us do the install, or pick it up and install it on your own.
Steve The Window Guy sells more than just windows in MN! So contact Steve the Window Guy to have him come to your home and give you a free quote. Or you can always call us at 612-866-2888.
How long have you been putting off replacing your patio door? Contact us today to start your free, no obligation estimate.
Author: Melissa Brager
Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities
Recent Blog Articles:
Choose a vinyl replacement window
Screens with better bug protection!
What color options are available for my replacement windows?
Window screens prevent mosquitoes from getting in to your home.
Nobody likes mosquitoes. Even though people in Minnesota sort of joke about them being the "state bird" no one is really proud of that. This past weekend my brothers and sisters and I spent a day at our parents house doing projects outside and every single time a mosquito was spotted it was disgust. Discussed. Whatever. Nobody likes mosquitoes. We were all slightly horrified that they were buzzing around us on what felt like the first warm day we've had.
I wonder how many people consider screen options as they head down the path of window replacement. It is easy to focus on quality of window, window ratings, window options and price .... so the screen just gets lumped in as part of the overall project. I think most people focus on how that new window will perform when it is closed. Will it keep your home warm enough? Cool enough? Will it keep you safe? Will it drown out the outdoor noise? Few people consider the performance of the screen on that window when its open.
Screens are just there, right? Day and night. 365 days a year. Screens just do their job. Clinging to your windows like superheroes protecting your home from outdoor junk like sticks and rocks and all sorts of bugs. But they actually do more than that.
Window screens also allow air flow into the home and depending on the weave, can even offer you a clearer view of the outdoors. Our patio door screens even offer an pet screen that increases performance of the screen if you have a dog or an energetic cat going after it.
At Universal Windows Direct, MN we offer several different screen options for your replacement windows - including one that offers advanced protection from bugs. In addition to our proven and reliable standard screen, we offer the following replacement window screen upgrades:
BetterVue Window Screen
10% Better airflow into your home.
10% Clearer view to outside
10% Better protection from bugs
UltraVue Window Screen
25% Better airflow into your home
25% Clearer view to outside
Check out this picture that illustrates the differences in the view with the upgraded screen options. Amazing, right?
So, bring on the mosquitoes because our upgrade screen options can handle it. Mention you saw this blog post and receive a FREE upgrade to the BetterVue Screen with increased insect protection for the month of June. Quotes are always free and we have samples of the screen we can show you in your home!
"If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito." Dalai Lamai XIV
Thanks for reading!
Author: Melissa Brager, Operations Manager
Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities
PS: After re-reading this post I am noticing all the assumptions out theree. Nobody likes mosquitoes. Nobody thinks about screens. Nobody wants bugs in their house. My apologies if I'm wrong!
Recent Blog Posts:
Universal Windows Direct Welcomes Summer
Why you should go with your gut when hiring a window contractor
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
Hiring a replacement window contractor can be tricky. Go with your gut. In my “former life” as an HR professional we had to always make decisions with facts. Facts. Facts. Facts. Hiring decisions were based on skills and work experiences.. We were literally told to ignore our gut. Guess what? When you are the homeowner and you are considering making an investment into your home GO WITH YOUR GUT!!
He seems friendly, right?
Like it or not, any home improvement project, from just a window replacement or door replacement or new vinyl siding to a full on room remodeling project means your home is exposed. Your life is disrupted (if only for a day) and your home undergoes change. You don’t want to trust that to just anyone. You certainly don’t want to trust it to just the “guy with the lowest price”. What DO you want?
The best product. The product that looks and feels like “your house”
The best warranty. You don’t want to buy the cheapest stuff and then go through this all again in a few years, do you?
The contractor with a good reputation. You checked him out, right? He isn’t the guy the BBB has listed with an “F” rating, or the guy with unresolved complaints against him in the double digits, right?
The contractor who is punctual, clean, put together, and well… likeable. If he is in your home to give you a quote and you ALREADY don’t like him (because he is rude, or talks down to you or talks over your head, or who you catch in a lie, etc) why would you invite him back?
The contractor who listens to you. It’s all any of us want, really. To be listened to. Ask questions.. Tell him your concerns. Give him a chance to answer everything and put any concerns you have to rest. Sometimes the sign of the best contractor isn’t the one who necessarily tells you what you want to hear, but the one who responds to you the most honestly
So next time you or someone you know is ready to talk to a window, siding, or door contractor they can trust, contact us. Experience what a non pushy, honest, and trustworthy home improvement contractor can be like!
Author: Melissa Brager, Universal Windows Direct
Related Articles:
Color options for replacement windows
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
Universal Windows Direct has replaced windows in Richfield homes for years. As we get ready for the Richfield Home Show this Saturday, take a look at how these homes were transformed by replacing a few windows. Do you recognize any? They could be your neighbors!
Is your home next? Swing by the Richfield Home Show this Saturday, schedule your free in home estimate and take advantage of special show savings! Can't make it out? No problem! Call us at 612-866-2888
Melissa Brager, Operations Manager
Universal Windows Direct
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:
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
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?
It's Fall Home Improvement Show time! Ready to start that project you've been putting off? You aren't alone! Every fall when the weather cools down homeowners all over the Twin Cities get serious about their home projects like window replacement, door replacement, and home remodeling. Stop out and visit with our reps at any of these upcoming Fall Home Improvement shows: Home Improvement and Design Expo:
October 20-21 at the Minneapolis Convention Center
October 27 at the National Sports Center in Blaine
November 3 at the Maple Grove Community Center
These shows offer a unique opportunity to visit with Home Improvement Companies and Remodelers to showcase their work, demonstrate their product, and answer your questions. If you are ready to start a project, or just want a chance to pre-shop quality of products, this is the place for you. Not only that, but the promoter of these shows, MediaMax, has filled the show with vendors, attractions, seminars, and all sorts of cool stuff.
Stop by and see Steve!
Stop out and visit the Universal Windows Direct booth and take advantage of our free triple pane upgrade as well as additional show discounts!
You like free, right? Please visit our booth at any of these shows as our guest. You can print free tickets at http://www.mediamaxevents.com/vip
See you there!
Author: Melissa Brager
Tips for Visiting Companies at a Home Improvement Show
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
Did you do it?
Yesterday when the severe weather sirens went off did you look at the sky? Or did you quickly try and remember what day and time it was? I did it. I heard the siren, I turned my head to the window, then back to the person I was talking to as I realized it was not 1:00 on a Wednesday. My very next thought was.. “It really IS spring!!”.
I don’t like severe weather. Tornadoes scare me.
I’m not one of those contractors that gets the glimmer in her eye when she sees a storm might roll in. You won’t find me devilishly rubbing my hands together in anticipation of serious damage in a neighborhood. I’m too soft hearted for that. I don’t want anyone’s home ripped apart or destroyed and I certainly don’t want anyone getting hurt or forced to move. It happened to me once and it was too stressful. I didn't like it one bit.
But I digress.
National Severe Weather Awareness week is an important right of passage into spring storm season. Cities check their sirens, school children practice their “duck and cover” and evacuation routes and families talk about what would happen if they were home when they heard the sirens or experienced bad weather. The best way to stay safe is to have a plan. Know where to go. Stock the freezer with popsicles so in the middle of the night when you hear the sirens and grab sleeping kids out of their beds to rush to the basement at least you can offer them an icy treat. Life is less scary with a Popsicle. (right, Mom?)
When the storm has passed and you realize your home has seen some damage you don’t need to dread the onslaught of hungry contractors knocking on your door every 5 minutes. Just call Universal Windows Direct. We’ll stop out and give you our factory direct price on replacing your windows, siding, front doors or sliding glass patio doors. We can price the job with or without installation. Take that price to your insurance company or to your contractor and call us when you’re ready. We know you’ll love our prices and our non pressure sales after a storm. We also know you’ll love the solid construction and energy efficiency of our UniShield Windows, the construction of our doors that repel moisture from getting in to your home, and the hail resistant properties of our insulated backed siding products.
Here is to a safe and storm free spring! (eat a Popsicle anyway!)
Melissa Brager, Universal Windows Direct
Related Blog Posts:
How Universal Windows Direct can repair your home after a storm
Happy Valentine's Day!
You'll LOVE UniShield Windows by Universal Windows Direct!
Whether you love the holiday or you dread it, it happens. You don't need to break the bank by buying overpriced flowers or purchasing a token gift. You don't even need to choose the best of the picked over Valentine's Day Cards for your sweetie. All you need to do is spread the love. Be kind; and share the good that surrounds you.
So I think we'll do just that. At Universal Windows Direct, MN we have been surrounded for years by customers that started out hating their windows. They desperately wanted and needed a change. And once they made their purchase of UniShield Replacement Windows, they were thrilled. You might even say they were in love. See what they had to say!
Reasons Customer Love UniShield Replacement Windows:
"We loved the direct sales approach with honesty and product knowledge. The estimate given on site was appreciated and the install crew was nothing but professional."
"What other contractor actually cleans up after himself?"
"After receiving other estimates, Universal Windows Direct offered the best product and the best price by far! No hidden fees, no extra charges. It was amazing how quick they were able to install windows in the whole house!"
"I'm so happy with the final product. My new windows look amazing!"
"We are extremely happy with our new windows! Quality of the workmanship exceeded our own expectations. JOB WELL DONE! We love our new look!"
"I could immediately tell the difference. My home is already warmer!"
What will your reason be? Contact us today to get your free, no obligation estimate and before you know it, you'll LOVE your new windows too!
Happy Valentine's Day!
Melissa Brager, Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities
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.
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?
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!
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!
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.
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!
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.
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
