Steve the WIndow Guy films TV Commercial

Join us for a behind the scenes look at the filming of Steve's TV Commercial

 Steve theWindow Guy will soon be on TV!

Imagine this.It’s 5:00 in the morning.You wake up, shower, and then wander into the kitchen for your morning coffee.You turnon WCCO to get the morning news and some insight into the weather.You slowly sip your coffee and zone out at the TV.Then,all of a sudden, BAM!!Steve the Window Guy.He is there on screen, in your face, and exuding WAY MORE enthusiasm than any human should really have at that hour of the morning.

Sounds great, doesn’t it?

The decision to go on TV wasn’t an easy one.We wanted to make sure when we did it, we did it right.We are results people.We will be on TV for a year.We will change our messages, but Steve the Window Guy will be a constant visitor in the homes of people throughout the Twin Cities during their morning routine.Get used to it.Make him your friend.You’re going to love him.

Our whole team is amazing.From our marketing agency to the camera guy, to our WCCO account rep to our producer…. Everyone was awesome and positive, and super professional.Here is how the day went:

Our studio time was at 10:00am.Steve and I met ALO (our agency rep) at WCCO studios downtown.We scored some on street parking in our window-mobile and were buzzed in to the reception area.We were then treated to WCCO visitor badges and ushered into the cozy waiting room.We spent the next 10 minutes tightening up our ad copy and running through the storyboard.

When the filming space was ready we got the quick tour on the way up there.First we saw the Newsroom(SO COOL), then the actual News set (WAY COOLER) and then our space (THE COOLEST).We met our camera guy and producer, and then I stepped to the side to powder Steve’s nose.

We taped on the green screen so luckily we didn’t wear green.(HA HA)

Steve stepped in front of the camera and was a total natural.I know it was nerveracking.He just stood there and delivered his lines and smiled that big goofy smile that he is known for.It was awesome!

We had multiple takes that were so good they could be used.It felt so good to know that we’d end up with a great commercial that represented him so well.After all, if Steve the Window Guy is coming out to your house, you really want to know what to expect, right?

Feeling much more calm on our second pass through the TV set we hopped up on the anchor’s chairs for a photo op.I’m not ashamed to say that I needed help getting up on my chair.It was super high and the wheels looked serious.I was afraid the chair was going to roll away and leave me in a crumpled mess on the floor!Here we are.Hamming it up.

Our last stop in the magical TV tour was the Rooftop Space.AMAZING.We live in the most beautiful city.

Our commercial will start airing on Monday, May 12 in the 4:30am – 9am time slot.We can’t wait for you to see it.When you do, drop us a line and let us know what you think!

Author:  Melissa Brager

Contact us for more information at 612-866-2888

Universal Windows Direct at Father Hennepin Days 2013

Universal Windows Direct will be participating in the Father Hennepin Days Business Expo June 8, 2013 !

We have done so many Home Shows and Summer Events that we have preparing for them and packing down to a science.   We bring different samples for different size booths, for example.   We bring carpet to an indoor event and lots of bungee cords and weights to outdoor events so our tent doesn't blow away.   When we are done packing the back of the truck is a work of art.  Every single thing is in its place.

But that was before baby.  She is 13 months now so she is at a more "normal" place schedule wise.  This means we can take her with us to more of these summer events.  So Father Hennepin Days is officially moving into a Family Fun Day that won't even feel like work!     We can spend some time in the tent with Steve and then we can explore the rest of the Festival.   I checked the Father Hennepin Days Event Schedule today and in addition to the Business Expo there is a Craft Fair, Carnival Rides, a Petting Zoo and a Skateboard Park...  just to name a few events.  We'll just bombard her senses and then she'll take a huge nap.   Right?   The weather is supposed to be very nice and mild so she might even get to nap in the stroller outside in the fresh air.    I don't know about you, but that sounds divine to me.

That's all for now.   We'll post pictures of the fun tomorrow on our Facebook page.

Oh - PS - If you are in the area we'd love for you to stop by our booth and see Steve the Window Guy!   We'll have samples of windows, siding, doors and roofing, brochures, and even some coupons.

Enjoy your weekend!

Melissa Brager

Universal Windows Direct, MN

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Universal Windows Direct: Making us Memorable

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

Tips on Visiting Home Shows

Replacement Window Contractors in Twin Cities

Hiring a Window Contractor

Richfield Homes: Replacement Windows by Universal Windows Direct

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

Richfield Home Show Details

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?

Home Improvements: Why a Home Improvement Can Be Small

Small effort can mean big results.   As I sit with my newborn I think like this all the time.    I think, "If I only have 45 minutes during this next nap, what can I get done that I’ll feel good about?”  or “I’m exhausted but I have chores.   What is the smallest thing I can do to feel progress?”  or my favorite “Hooray, I took meat out of the freezer! Dinner is practically done!”    Silly maybe, but I’m guessing I am not alone there.

Making home improvements can actually be like this too. Too often people think that to make a home improvement they have to commit weeks and weeks to meetings and discussions and shopping and details.   I think people worry about the thousands of dollars it will cost to replace every single window in their house or to do everything they dream about all at once.   It really doesn’t have to be like that.  We have lots of customers that talk to us about their dreams and then we work together to figure out what part of that dream they can accomplish first.   Maybe it’s just the windows in the living room, maybe it’s the windows in the front of the house, or maybe it’s the whole first level.   My point is that it doesn’t need to be a huge overwhelming process.   It can short.   It can be focused.  And it can be inside your budget.

Not ready to replace your windows?  No problem.  There are a number of small home improvements you can make that will take very small effort or expense, but can make a big change in how a space looks and feels.   So get ready, I’ve put together my favorite ideas!

Top 5 ways to quickly brighten up a space

1. Buy a large flowering basket or plant a large pot of colorful annuals to put in front of your house for instant curb appeal.

2. Replace the hardware on kitchen cabinets.

3. Choose a bright lampshade to brighten up a dull space.

4. Switch up the linens you use in the bathroom.   A few bright hand towels and new rug will make small space seem new again!

5. Keep a centerpiece on the kitchen table, the dining room table, or any surface that you see a lot.   Fresh flowers, bowls of fresh fruit, or even a stack of books can make boring spaces seem completely different.

No matter what small change you make to your living space, just make sure you love it.    When you want to talk about replacing a few windows or doors, give us a call. We’d love to work with you!

Melissa Brager

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Love UniShield Windows: Reasons our customers love their UniShield Replacement Windows

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:

1. "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."

2. "What other contractor actually cleans up after himself?"

3. "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!"

4. "I'm so happy with the final product.   My new windows look amazing!"

5. "We  are extremely happy with our new windows!  Quality of the workmanship exceeded our own expectations.  JOB WELL DONE!   We love our new look!"

6. "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

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!

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.

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: Window Terms Starting with "O"

Obscure Glass

Any textured glass (frosted, etched, fluted, ground, etc.) used for privacy, light diffusion, or decorative effects.   Commonly used in main floor bathroom 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.   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.

Ideal Customer: Who is the ideal customer of Universal Windows Direct?

We laugh sometimes when people ask us "who is your ideal customer?".   The answer seems obvious - because our ideal customer is anyone who is looking for windows, siding, or doors at factory direct prices.

BUT.....   what that person looks like can be a whole different story.    What do I mean? Check it out.

Top 10 "Ideal Customers" of Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities

1. Your niece, the first time home buyer, who wants to update her old single pane windows that came with the house.

2. Your neighbor, who is selling their house,  who wants to upgrade the front door to something more inviting.

3. Your cousin, the Contractor, who is looking to get a better price on a great vinyl windows and keep a bit more cash in his pocket.

4. Our previous customers who replaced windows on the first level of the house last year, and are now ready to replace windows in the upper level.

5. Your co-worker in North Minneapolis, Fridley, or Forest Lake who was affected by the recent tornadoes and literally needs to replace the windows and siding in their home.

6. Your Mom or Dad who are looking to add a bay or bow window to the front of their home.

7. You.  Because you have spent your last winter with cold drafty windows.

8. Your aunt and uncle, who are building a 4 season porch full of windows.

9. Your boyfriend, the guy who can do anything - even install windows,

10. Your sister who has lived with that hail damage on her siding for two years too long.

No matter who you know or what their reasons are for calling, Universal Windows Direct will come to your home, discuss your project, answer your questions and leave you a price.   The price reflects when you buy direct.  Contact us today!

Just another day in the office: Behind the scenes with Universal Windows Direct

Hi!  Welcome back to our blog.   I know I promised a more personal glimpse into the business, so here I go.

I started work today at 8:30 and this was my morning:

• General administrative paperwork

• Finishing up the blog on vinyl siding

• Receiving the latest window and door shipment   (everything we expected arrived, except the brochures for the upcoming show, of course)

• A meeting with a potential new credit card processing company.

On the way to the meeting we got a call from a lady who was referred by a customer of ours we installed a year ago.  I love that!   She was hoping someone had time to meet her at 1:00 today and luckily Steve was open.   He spent the afternoon with her talking about windows and ultimately selling them to her.   Of course, on the way he stopped to drop off some materials for the installers and on the way back he visited the install site again to check on progress and make sure the customer was thrilled.

Meanwhile, I ate my lunch (leftover spaghetti!) and planned out menus for the next week. You see, we have a big home show coming up this weekend and nothing - I mean NOTHING - makes you want to plan a menu more than the thought of being trapped in the convention center eating grease for 3 days.   Not only that, but I have learned that a person who works quite a bit from her home office gets much lazier about meals than a person who leaves to work in a cube.   If I don't have a plan, nothing happens.   But I digress.

I ran to the bank to make our deposits from yesterday, dropped off a cable box at the cable company, completed the grocery shopping ($35 in coupon savings!) and then ran to meet a remodeler at our warehouse to pick up the windows he ordered.

Since I was so close I went into the office to check on the status of a few orders and to check emails.   I didn't get the email I was hoping for.  Apparently L&L Exhibition Management, the promoters for the home remodeling show this weekend,  are running a TV ad to promote the show that features Steve at the beginning of it!     A friend of ours called to say she saw it today while watching "The View".   I'm dying to see it and so I called the company asking if they could email me a copy of the commercial.  Stay tuned.  If I get it I'm posting it!

Here it is, 4:00pm on this beautiful day I'm finally back at home and ditching the office in favor of the sunshine and the fresh air.   This is my favorite part of the day because I get to blog a little and do a little work on our web marketing campaign.  When I'm done out here I'll  get a little workout in and hopefully get started prepping for my garage sale.   That is, unless I get tempted with a nice long walk outside.

If you want to be part of our day - in the form of an in-home consultation for windows, siding, or doors, contact me.  I'll send Steve out and you guys will have a ball!

The price reflects when you buy direct.  Universal Windows Direct, MN offers you the highest quality home improvement products at factory direct prices.