My week in review: Universal Windows Direct talks Small Business Ownership

Small Business Ownership.  Have you ever wondered what it would be like?  This blog post will give you a small glimpse into what it has been like for me this week.

First of all, I should say I am writing this on a rainy Friday morning.   I am super casual, barefoot in fact, and alone in the office with the latest Cities 97 sampler playing loudly.    On my desk is a large very dark roast from Starbucks and a container of fruit that I picked up at Kowalski’s this morning.  I have the freedom to stop and pick things up for my day, just as I have the freedom to snuggle my little girl for as long as she wants before leaving daycare.   Other parents come and go while I’m there and I let them.  They have bosses, deadlines, meetings and people waiting for them.

I have work.

Enormous, never ending piles of work.

You know when your order a huge salad at a restaurant and you feel like you’ve been eating it forever but it still looks like a full bowl?  That is how my work is.  Effort and result doesn’t impact volume.  It is weird.

Some days I have constant interruptions – the drop everything and do this right now kind of interruptions.  Are you familiar with Covey’s Time Management matrix?  Those are quadrant 4 days.  THE WORST kind of days.   I had 2 of those days this week.

Other days I just give in to the work.  I literally pile it up on my desk and dedicate myself to touching each paper only one time and just doing it.  I don’t care how random the task is or how many programs I have open on my desktop.   I just work on eliminating the pile.   According to Strength finder I am and ACHIEVER.  I need to get something productive done every day to stay in balance.   I had one of those days this week.

Still other days I am alone for the entire day and I have the freedom to jump into a project and give it the real focus and time to do it right, and help it move forward.   The days I get to put plans and ideas into action to help our business move forward are my favorite. They feed my other strengths of STRATEGIC ANALYTICAL and RELATOR.   I also had one of those days this week.

Looking at the last four days, I have at some point or another I have functioned in each of the following roles: • Bookkeeper • Accounts Receivable Rep • Customer Service Rep • Job Estimator • Job Scheduler • Office Manager • Search Engine Marketer • Copyrighter • Project Manager • Office Manager • Graphic Designer

I also managed to work one entire day with my 2 year old in the office with me.

Crazy, right?

Once upon a time, in what seems a lifetime ago, worked for a very large company in Human Resources.   I thought I had variety but mostly what I had was a lot of the same.  A tremendous amount of the same.   I was a machine going through the motions.  I was unable to shake the feeling that I was working in an alternate universe.  Within the 4 walls of that building, nothing (and I mean nothing) was actually as important as what people thought.   The urgency that existed from 8-5 (or 6 or 7) was gone when I got to my car.   It seemed the work didn’t matter.   I knew that life wasn’t for me.

I came away from that alternate universe with tools and systems and processes.   Peggy taught me a mess is fine if you can find what you need.  Heather gave me great time management skills like Covey’s matrix and the pink folder daily system.  And Mark taught me the “touch it once” philosophy and encouraged me to track weekly progress against goals.   I use all of these things.   I know that no matter what my week throws at me I can keep this machine moving forward.

Business ownership still contains long days and it does put us in a constant on call situation.  Our nights and weekends are interrupted more often than not.  But the work matters.  We work with our customers making decisions to improve their homes.  We offer products people can afford.  We help them improve curb appeal.  We repair damage.  We keep their homes safe.  We increase the energy efficiency of their homes and we help them lower their heating and cooling bills.

There is no alternate universe here there is only our universe.

And we wouldn’t trade it for anything.

If you have a home improvement project and are looking for a quote on it, call us.  We'd love to meet you.

Author:  Melissa Brager

Famous Wife of Steve The Window Guy

Sliding Glass Patio Doors: Universal WIndows Direct offers Patio Doors

Read about why our Patio Doors are Awesome!

Universal Windows Direct offers Patio Doors

Patio Door Month is here!!

I’m not sure how it happens, but one month a year we realize it has become patio door month.

Maybe it's because we drag that beautiful patio door sample out to the big home shows with us.   Maybe it's because with the the first few inches of snow melted comes the promise of summer nights on the deck or lazy Saturdays by the pool.   Cabin fever slowly transitions into Patio Door Fever.   And Universal Windows Direct is here to help.

Our patio doors are awesome.    Fusion welded frames and sashes mean the door is strong, it is solid on the corners and it is square.   If you’ve ever tried to open or close a patio door that wasn’t square you can really appreciate that statement.

The doors come standard with a 7/8” glass insulating cavity with  argon gas and of course they have the super spacer.   When you have a space that large covered in glass in your home, the last thing you  need is a metal or aluminum spacer pulling all that cold air into your living space.   In addition we offer the stainless steel rollers on the bottom so the operation is smooth and effortless.   (No muscle needed).

Sliding Glass Doors are meant to be open in the summer, right?  So that screen door is included as part of the door.   It is ridiculous to us that it is an add on option with some companies!    Have pets?  No problem.  You can choose to upgrade to the pet screen which is stronger and more resistant to the wear and tear of pets

Do you want your new door to be bright white?   Do you like a softer tan or do you prefer a deep chocolate brown?   None of those?  How about a wood grain?  How about a maintenance free vinyl wood grain in a dark oak, light oak or a cherry?   Are we getting closer?

Finally, lets not be afraid to jazz up that door a bit with grids or an etched glass pattern.  The etched arch in our show sample is always a hit, but I am partial to the etched prairie view grids.  If you've ever found yourself at the cabin stitching red yard stick figures into your screen, you might prefer the etched glass too!

As with all of our UniShield products, our sliding glass patio doors carry a double lifetime warranty.    Let this be the last time you ever replace that patio door.   Contact us today for a free quote.   We’ll send an awesome sales guy right out to you.  =)

Cheers.  Enjoy the spring!  Summer is right around the corner.

Author:  Melissa Brager

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Steve the Window Guy

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

Radio!: Steve the Window Guy records radio spots!

Steve the Window Guy recorded his first radio spots this morning. Read this blog for a behind the scenes look!

Radio.   Radio!  RADIO!!!   (So many ways you can say it!)   We are taking the plunge into radio advertising!  After talking and planning and writing ad copy for the last few weeks today was the big day and we recorded our spots!

We were both nervous but the kind of nervous where you don’t talk about it – you just both know it is there.    The morning was busy as we got our peanut dropped off at Primrose, we got the installers going, met a contractor who was placing an order, sent in payroll and generally tried to get our desks in order.   By 9:15 we were on our way!

We recorded at Clear Channel Studios in St Louis Park.   From the minute the elevator doors opened we knew we were in a creative space!  Shiny stainless steel looking floors, bright colors and lots of pictures were everywhere!   We got there early, of course, so we were treated to a wonderful conversation with a studio exec who was so warm and positive and genuine that all of our nerves melted away on the spot.

He gave us the quick tour of the offices where we went into the very very cool Studio C and we were able to catch a glimpse of KDWB, KFAN and K102 recording their shows.   We popped in quick to meet Lee Valsvick and we ran into Keri Noble and Adam West in the hallways.     If radio personalities you hear all the time can be normal people in jeans and a cozy hoodie then what could we possibly be worried about, right?

By the time we entered our studio to record we were ready!   Both our marketing guru Loni and the sound genius Dave  made it really easy to get a finished product we are excited about.   Doesn't Steve look professional?

Steve might say it wasn’t really easy, but no one gets it perfect the first time.  We recorded the same words and the same phrases about one hundred times.  We edited copy on the spot, we swapped our phrases, we re-ordered things, and we recorded until it was perfect.

Literally one hour later we walked out with 2 completed 15 second spots.  It felt incredibly productive and wonderful.

Our spots will be running on KFAN and on MYTALK 107.1 starting next week in the 6-9am slots.  Tune in on your way to work and when you hear our ads tell us.   Write on our Facebook Page and tell us what you think.  WE hope you love them as much as we do!

Meanwhile, if you or someone you know is in the market for windows, siding, doors or roofing, contact us for a free quote!   I’ll send Steve The Window Guy out to your home and you’ll have a blast!

Author: Melissa Brager

Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct

Home Shows: Steve the Window Guy Closes out Spring Home Shows

This blog gives a behind the scenes look at our life working home shows!

We survived.

The spring home show season for 2014 is officially over for us.

 Some companies hire a staff of people who do nothing but work shows.   We chose not to do that.   Steve, Zach and I work most of them.   We prefer to have people in our booth who know the product and can have an intelligent conversation with you.    Zach, Dave, Joe, Sarah and Mike are all people we adore both personally and professionally.    They are smart.  They are helpful.  They are knowledgeable.  They are good people and we trusted them to represent our company.   Having that level of trust made those big huge long shows very successful for us.   More importantly, their help meant we didn't have to be there every minute.

Home shows are a lot of hours.  Still, they are the best way to get our name out to the local communities.      Are they the only way for us to personally connect with homeowners and potential customers?  YES!   Are they hands down the best way for a prospective customer to see the quality of our replacement windows and doors while comparing to the competition?  ABSOLUTELY!

But is working a home show every weekend easy?  NO!

While everyone else is winding down their Friday and calculating how much longer they have to pretend to work before Happy Hour , we are just getting started.  We are loading the truck.  We are printing our move-in instructions.  We are gambling with rush hour traffic; trying to get a bit more done in the office before we go set up.

Have you ever seen a home show get set up?  It’s like one of those little Chinese puzzles we used to get as kids at birthday parties.  Everyone is jockeying for a spot by the door.  Everyone is frantically unloading their stuff and dumping it into their booth so they can move the truck and the next guy can get in.  It isn’t a calm process.

Then, once all of our displays are inside we arrange the booth.   Do you think the booth would be easy to arrange every time?  It isn’t!   We have different set ups every single time based on the location and size of the booth, the number of corners the booth has, whether or not we’re on the end, and even what show it is.     This means once everything is unloaded we do the whole scratching our head thing and start moving stuff until it feels right.    (Not unlike when we moved into our home trying to decide the best spot for the sofa!)

We do our best.  We make a list of what we forgot, and we head home.  Do we stop for ice cream?  Yes.  Most days.

If we are both working, the “show prep” continues with prepping the babysitter for the next day.   We try to clean the house so we don’t look like total slobs.   We try to make sure there is food for the sitter and for the baby… and we usually do an okay job at it.      Just like that our Friday night is shot.

Saturday Mornings are crazy.  We are busy getting up and ready to go.  We need a big breakfast.  We need to pack a lunch.  We spend what time we can with our daughter.   We greet the babysitter and give her last minute instructions, then we race off to buy the caffeine we’ll need for the day and then race to the show.    Often we stop at the office to grab something.   More often then I’d like to admit, we stop at the grocery store to buy food for lunch.   And a doughnut.   (our nutrition suffers). 

By the time the show opens we are ready to go and we work.   We talk to hundreds of people every day.  We demo our replacement windows.  We show the quality of our steel and fiberglass entry doors.    We talk about the benefit of being a preferred contractor with Owens Corning for our roofing.   We talk until we cannot talk any more.  Then we ride home in silence.   Exhausted.

The next day we repeat the whole routine..  with the added bonus of tear down.    At the end of the show we tear it all down, pack it all up, re-load the truck, jockey for loading space in the back of the show space and then take it all home.  And unload it all back in to the warehouse.   Sunday night is usually a late night.

Then on Monday morning the week starts all over again.   The phone keeps ringing, orders keep getting placed, jobs keep getting installed, and our sales guys keep running appointments.   We look ahead to the next weekend and what we need to do to get ready.

For us, home show season starts at the end of January and goes until mid-April.   We have a few weekends off, but for the most part we are working every weekend.  It is necessary.  It is beneficial.  It is tiring.  It is exhausting.

If you talked to us at a show this year, thank you very much.     We appreciate your time and consideration.    We love our company.   We believe in our products and we strive to do the best possible job for you and your family.

Next weekend we have a weekend.   This is going to feel new to us.  And it is going to feel so very  GOOD.   I can’t wait.

Meanwhile, if you or someone you know is in the market for replacement windows,  doors, siding or roofing, please contact us for a free quote.

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

Author:  Melissa Brager

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Universal WIndows Direct, MN: Top 5 WInter Activites of Universal Windows Direct

This blog post shares an update on the winter activities of Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities

Remodeling and Construction businesses typically have a slow period through the winter.     Homeowners hibernate in the winter and spend their time preparing for the holidays, watching more TV, and planning their spring vacations.   Then, the first day the temperature rises to 40 degrees spring fever hits and the phone starts ringing.

No business owner in the home improvement business looks forward to this slower time in the year, but at Universal Windows Direct we really embraced it this year.

Top 5 Winter Activities of Universal Windows Direct

1. We did a bit of remodeling of our own, as we prepared to move into our new office and warehouse.   We stripped the space down, removed a wall, replaced sheetrock, added attic insulation, painted and replaced the carpet.   We are left with a large work space and lots of natural light… with easy access to our warehouse.  We are especially loving the play room area for Tessie and the conference room so we can meet with clients.

2. We attended a national sales meeting in January where we immersed ourselves in networking, business planning, and goal setting for 2014.   It is amazing how dedicating time to something as important as that can set your whole year off on the right path.

3. We hosted a job fair at our new location so we could bring the right talent in to our company.   Within a week we were blessed to hire both Zach and Ryan.  These guys are awesome.   They are smart, they take in new information quickly, they ask good questions and they made training very easy.   We are so pleased with the contributions they have already brought to us

4. We prepped for the big Minneapolis Home and Garden Show.  We have a large 20x20 booth with all of our full size samples and we sit on a main aisle.    We added a video monitor on our bay window this year to attract more attention and we hired the BEST SHOW STAFF of all time to help us work.   We seriously have never felt more confident or more proud of the people in our booth representing us.

5. We kept working.   Yup.  We started and finished several siding jobs over the winter and we were installing windows every week.  We ran appointments every week.   We started working home shows in January.   We never stopped working.

Now that it is “spring”  (ignore the snow from earlier this week) we are poised for a fantastic spring!   We are actively quoting home improvent jobs for window replacement, sliding glass doors, front entry doors, siding, and roofing.   If you've been waiting until spring to start your window, siding, door or roofing project, it is here.   Contact us today to get started.

Author:  Melissa Brager, Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct MN

Last 3 Articles

How to Prevent Ice Dams

UniShield Max Window

Heat Stopper Technology

Ice Dams: What is a Roof Ice Dam and How Do You Prevent it?

Ice Dams are a thick ridge of ice that build up on the eaves of your home. This blog shares more detail on how roof ice dams form in MN and offers attic insulation as one way to prevent them.

Ice Dams.   We’ve all heard about them but what is an ice dam?

Ice Dams are a thick ridge of ice that build up on the eaves of your home.  They are caused when snow starts to melt and run down the roof, and then re-freezes when it reaches the eaves.   The warm air on the top of your roof causes the snow to melt, and it runs down the pitch of your house to the cold eaves where it gets trapped and then freezes.

Moisture is always attracted to the coldest surface it can find.  If it is cold enough, it will freeze.  This is the same reason you may find frost on the bottom of your old windows or patio doors inside your home.   On your roof it is just worse because the melt off literally rolls down-hill to the eave where it collects.

Once the ice dam has been formed, it only gets worse.   Any additional water that rolls down towards it gets trapped underneath the dam and it can seep into your home, causing water damage.   On a large scale that damage can cause paint to peel, ceilings to be replaced, floors to be warped, insulation to rot, and window treatments to be replaced.

**Fun fact**  Glacial ice dams are the same thing, but on a much larger scale.   With a glacial ice dam the frozen glacier moves until it gets blocked by a river, and the backup of water causes a lake.   In Minnesota that gives us a place to go visit in the summer.   In your home, the backup could result in an insurance claim.

How do you prevent an ice dam?  There are several actions you can take to prevent an ice dam.

When snow starts to pile up take a large roof rake and remove the snow from the eaves.  Pay special attention to any snow buildup around roof vents and make sure the downspouts on your gutters are clear so drainage can occur.

Attic insulation is a great way to prevent ice dams.   By making sure your attic is properly insulated you are both trapping the warm air inside your home, and with proper ventilation, you are ensuring that the roof is staying cool.   A cool roof will not melt the snow, therefore working to prevent the main cause of ice dams.

Universal Windows Direct can help prevent ice dams from forming.

Is your attic insulated?   Do you have the proper ventilation in your attic to keep your roof cool?   Contact Universal Windows Direct, MN today for a FREE consultation on your current attic.   A small amount of time now can prevent huge problems later.

Call us today at 612-866-2888 to schedule your appointment!

Author:  Melissa Brager, Universal Windows Direct, MN

Now Hiring: Universal WIndows Direct is Hiring!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tour our new office and meet Steve the Window Guy!

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

Now Hiring: Universal Windows Direct Hosts Job Fair

We are hiring in-home sales, lead generators, event marketing, appointment setters and installer positions. Interviews taking place on February 4, 2014 at a job fair in our office.

Hello 2014!

We are moved in to our new office space, we have promoted the office baby into part time daycare, and we have our first home show of the season under our belt.  What’s next?  

Job Fair!

 We are currently hiring in –home sales, lead generators, and event marketing positions.  It doesn’t matter if you have some experience or no experience; if you are a high energy person who loves to talk to people and is exciting about making connections, making sales and helping us grow our company, then we want to meet you!

Curious to know more about us? 

• We are Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities.

• We are one of the most successful Universal Windows Direct Dealers in the nation

• We are a family owned business that believes integrity and service rules

• We are planning to increase our business this year by 60%.

• Everyone who joins our team becomes part of our family and will help us reach our goal.

So tell us, what are your goals this year? 

Do you want to use your skills or gain new skills?   Do you love in home sales?   Does working a trade show pump you up?   Are you awesome at making phone calls to prospective customers?   Is installing really your strength and you’re looking for a steady stream of work?

IF so, then come out to the job fair to meet us!   We want to learn about you, and give you a chance to learn more about us.  If you are interested, you will be interviewed!   Reserve your interview spot by contacting us today or just show up the day of.    Job Fair will be open from 3pm - 8pm. 

Interview spots are already filling up so don’t delay.   Call Melissa at 612-866-2888.

Our office is at 150 West 88th Street, Bloomington, MN.    It is located in the Pillsbury Square Office Park about 4 blocks West of Nicollet on 88th Street.    We are the 2ndwarehouse in on the right side of the office park.   Look for the flags the day of the job fair.  

For more detailed directions or help finding us the day of, contact Melissa or Steve at 612-866-2888.  Email us at twincities@universalwindowsdirect.com

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

Happy New Year from Universal Windows Direct

This blog gives an update on our week at the Seminar and shares some plans for 2014!

Universal Windows Direct is ready for an AWESOME New Year!   Are you?

At Universal Windows Direct we are very excited about 2014 and having our best year ever. Our goal is a lofty one, but we know that with the help of an amazing staff, awesome installers, and people like you we can do it!

Last week we were fortunate to attend the 2014 Universal Windows Direct Success Seminar. We were happy to escape the 30 below MN weather to go to the beautiful Marriot Hotel in Downtown Cleveland Ohio – where it was a balmy 20 degrees! For several days we enjoyed numerous seminars on business growth, advertising, marketing, and sales. Not only that, but we benefitted greatly from listening to the stories of our dealer partners from around the country. It is amazing how so many people with different experiences and different backgrounds can come together and help each other grow. We walked away from the meeting exhausted, but ready to put plans into action!

Now THAT is factory direct!

The last day of the seminar was a factory tour at Polaris. There is something very very cool about being in the factory and actually watching all of the men and women who work there building the product that we sell. There is an enormous amount of pride there, and we love that our business is part of what keeps them busy. We were super impressed at not only the cleanliness of the factory but the efficiency of the process. Perhaps the highlight of the tour was noticing our most recent order of window completed, and ready to be loaded. This window will be installed within the next 2 weeks!

How did Tessie do? She rocked. Our little jellyfish spent 5 days and nights with 5 different people, in 5 different houses and sleeping in 5 different beds.  Playing cousins, demanding kisses every second and loving every minute of it..  She even went to a huge family birthday party so she literally spent time with everyone!  Have I mentioned our blessed we are? Thank you a million times over to our community of family members who will take her in, love her and play with her until she reaches exhaustion! We missed her like crazy but we know she had fun. So here we are. Back in the office prepping for our move, consolidating our notes, and poised to put our plans in to action. Get ready to see a lot more of Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities in the coming year.  Our office is nearing completion,  we are planning a job fair and we excited at the possibilities.

Last but not least, if you or anyone you know is considering replacing their windows, siding, entry doors, patio doors, roofing or attic insulation give us a call! Quotes are always free and we will provide you with the information you need to make a decision along with a same day – in writing – estimate of the job. Contact us today at through our website at www.universalwindowsmn.com , email us at twincities@universalwindowsdirect.com, or call us in the office at (612) 866-2888.

Chat soon!

Author: Melissa Brager

Recent Articles: 2013 in Review

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What is Innergy?

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Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities: Our Year in Review 2013

We love the opportunity to be reflective, celebrate our success and growth over the past year, and then turn the page to a new and exciting year to come.

Wow.   It is hard to believe another year has raced by us!  We love the opportunity to be reflective, celebrate our success and growth over the past year, and then turn the page to a new and exciting year to come.

We are a family business, so blurred lines are a way of life for us.  If you call the office you might hear the baby making noise. If you come inside there will be toys everywhere.   If there is something fun happening for the family, the office takes a back seat and if there is a home show or event in the area, Tessie and I will definitely be there to check it out and visit Steve.

At the same time, when we have big home shows or long weeks working the county fairs, we rely on our fantastic family community to take Tessie into their homes to care for her, play with her, and love her.  She is a total jellyfish just going with the flow and adapting to every different house or situation she is thrown in to.     Those county fair days were crazy with a different house every day but she was a rock star.  I think it was easier for her than for me!

Just as we rely on each customer for their loyal support and business, we rely on our installers for their dependability and eye for quality work, and we rely on our family and friends to be our backbone and ultimate support system.  We cannot thank all of you enough.

2013 was a busy year for us!  Our Tessie morphed before our eyes from an adorable lump of a baby just learning to crawl to a full on toddler with all of the activity (times one thousand) that comes with that.   Our fantastic installer of 4 years left us to get married, build a house and move to a union job – forcing us to do our best to replace him.   If you met Matt you know those were big shoes to fill.. And we are thrilled to have Brad and his crew doing just that.   We also added a part time employee to the office to help with all of the daily work that piles up!  She makes life easier for us every single day.

From a product perspective, we saw great changes to our exclusive UniShield Windows and Doors, like enhanced glass packages, heat stopper technology, Innergy fiberglass reinforcements, and brand new glass designs in our entry doors.  We stepped up our siding business and continued to sell the awesome insulated backed Craneboard that customers just love.   We even moved into roofing and were able to achieve the status of Owens Corning Preferred Roofing Contractor.  Business was booming, we enjoyed a busier than average summer and fall, and our storage was overflowing on more than one occasion.   We had our biggest year ever and feel this is definitely a good sign for the economy, don’t you?

Not only were we busy, but we managed to win a few awards! At the 2013 Minneapolis Home and Garden Show we won the award for Friendliest Exhibitor one day!  We were named the Favorite Window Company by readers of the Sun Newspapers, and we achieved the Angie’s List Super Service Award for 2013.    We continue to be one of the top Universal Windows Direct Dealers in the Nation and we have maintained our A+ BBB rating for 5 years.

Of course, we took time out of work for family events, meeting our new niece and nephew, swimming lessons, visiting the beach, going to the zoo, and celebrating Tessie’s First Birthday.   We continued our tradition of a family themed Halloween Costumes, we hosted Thanksgiving dinner and we went completely wild for Christmas!   Somehow we managed to give Tessie 90% hand me down toys and I was able to surprise Steve with a new snow blower under the tree.  Whoop whoop!

As we look in to 2014 we know we will continue to see changes.   Our window and door lines will continue to be tweaked to provide even better energy saving benefits to homeowners.   We will take full advantage of our Owens Corning Preferred Roofing Contractor Status, and will step up our attic insulation business as well.  We are hiring for in home sales, and additional siding and roofing installers,  we are planning some cool new displays for the Home and Garden show at the end of February and are already planning Tessie’s Golden  2nd Birthday Party Extravaganza for this May.

Our biggest news is summed up in this poem:

“Twas the Day before Christmas (Eve) and all through our house we were brimming with excitement…. Even the mouse!

A building we noticed quite a long time ago was available and perfect! We couldn’t say no!

Room for a warehouse and our offices and trailers Even a room to assemble our mailers!

Space for storage and plenty of room to grow... With a playroom for Tessie... we were a GO!

We scooped up the baby and scraped the snow off our cars Then dashed to the building, signed the lease and it’s OURS!”

That’s right!   In the coming month we will be moving into a new office space and we are thrilled!

Follow us on Twitter for a behind the scenes look at the move.   #UWDMoves

Like us on Facebook for current activity, product info and lots of pictures

Call us any time for free quotes on any of our fabulous home improvement products.   We sell direct to the consumer or remodeler, we sell fully installed solutions, and we can meet the requirements of most every townhome or housing association.   We work with realtors, landlords and investors who buy and sell homes.  We would love the opportunity to work with you and your contacts.  Please keep us in mind for the coming year.  612-866-2888

Cheers!  Be Safe and Enjoy a Wonderful 2014!

Author:  Melissa Brager

UniShield Max: Universal Windows Direct, MN Now Offers UniShield Max Windows

UniShield Max is the latest product development in the exclusive UniShield line of windows sold by Universal Windows Direct dealers across the nation.

UniShield Max is here!

UniShield Max is the latest product development in the exclusive UniShield line of windows sold by Universal Windows Direct dealers across the nation.   In Minnesota, look no further than Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities servicing the entire Minneapolis and St. Paul Metro Area.

The UniShield Max  is an enhanced replacement window that adds construction stability, strength and insulation into the actual frames and sashes.    Combine it with our double pane or triple pane glass packages with argon or krypton fill and you will find yourself with one of the best windows you can buy.

Innergy comes standard with UniShield Max.  Innergy is  an advanced fiberglass reinforced resin insert that is specially designed to slide into window and door chambers to provide greater insulation AND greater support to your window frames. It eliminates the use of  metal or aluminum as a part of the window construction; increasing the window's performance by 700 times over windows with aluminum in them.

Heat Stopper technology is another standard feature in the UniShield Max.   This technology eliminates hollow chambers in the window frame and sashes by filling them.  While  some air circulation in the window frame is needed;  when the entire chamber is empty too much air circulates and the entire outside of the frame and sash can get extremely cold.  Heat stopper can keep more of that cold outside, and the additional structure it provides gives more strength to the window sashes; ensuring that your brand new windows will look brand new for years and years to come.

UniShield Max is simply a combination of the innergy feature, the heat stopper technology, our super spacer, and our energy efficient glass packages.  It truly delivers a strong, long lasting window that is perfect for the Minnesota climate.

So  who is the ideal customer for the UniShield Max?   We believe that every homeowner who likes the no maintenance side of vinyl, and who wants to put an insulated, energy efficient window into their home is going to love the UniShield Max.  Does that sound like you?  Call Steve the Window Guy at today for your free, no obligation estimate!

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

Author:  Melissa Brager

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Innergy: Introducing Innergy in all UniShield Replacement Windows

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

Innergy technology has arrived!   The UniShield vinyl replacement windows, offered exclusively by Universal Windows Direct Dealers across the country now offer Innergy as the latest must have upgrade.   What is it?  It is an advanced fiberglass reinforced resin insert that is specially designed to slide into window and door chambers to provide greater insulation AND greater support to your window frames.

Why is Innergy better?

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

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

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

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

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

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Heat Stopper Technology: UniShield Windows Now Offer Heat Stopper Technology

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

The heat stopper technology, as shown in a window sill

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

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

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

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

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

Author:  Melissa Brager, Universal Windows Direct, MN

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Home Improvement Projects: Top Home Improvement Projects for Fall

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Author:  Melissa Brager, Operations Manager

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Window Installers - Universal Windows Direct is Hiring Window Installers

Window installers make it all happen.

Let’s face it.   Deciding to get your windows replaced is a big deal.   Everyone knows they have windows that they might like to get replaced when the time is right, or when they get a little worse, or when they get sick of the plastic or when they finally get paid that bonus they’ve been waiting for.   When you start thinking about getting windows replaced you’re thinking about getting the windows replaced.  Period.

What you’re not thinking about:

1. You’re not thinking about giving up a few hours of your evening to visit with a window salesperson.

2. You’re not thinking about the investment you’re not making in your home and how that could help with resale.

3. You’re not thinking about the hit to your bank account and

4. I’m guessing you’re not thinking about finally making the decision and then waiting 6-8 weeks to see the windows.

What you’re thinking about.

1. You’re thinking about GETTING THE WINDOWS INSTALLED.  The end result!

2. The fresh clean look.

3. The nice grids between the panes of glass.

4. The nice double hung windows that tilt in for easy cleaning.

5. The casement window that actually cranks in.

6. The ability to see through that patio door that has been fogged for months.

We get it.

When it comes down to it, the installers are the ones who really make it happen.    They arrive at your house with your brand new windows in their trailer.   They pull out the windows you have been so excited to get rid of and before they leave at the end of the day they install all the brand new ones.

Basically, they make your dreams come true.

Now hiring:  Dream fulfillers / Happiness Deliver-ers / Window Installers.    We have immediate openings for experienced window installers.   Must be able to work throughout the Twin Cities Metro Area and be available at least 2 days per week and up to 5 days per week.  We install throughout the winter too and our spring season starts in March.   If you or someone you know might be interested and available contact us today.

We need your help to make people happy throughout the Twin Cities.  Call us today for more info.  612-866-2888.

Author:  Melissa Brager, Universal Windows Direct, MN

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Warranty on Windows: Why Warranty Matters on Replacement Windows

This article is a light hearted look at why warranty matters when buying replacement windows

war·ran·ty [n. wawr-uhn-tee]

"a written guarantee given to the purchaser of a new appliance, automobile, or other item by the manufacturer or dealer, usually specifying that the manufacturer will make any repairs or replace defective parts free of charge for a stated period of time.

Warranty.

Not too subtely subtitled “how long the manufacturer expects their product to last”

True story.  I have this friend who starts every day by having 2 pieces of toast. With peanut butter (and coffee, of course). One morning her whole morning was disrupted when she realized that her beloved toaster was no longer working.

So.. off to the store she went. She thought buying a toaster would be easy (aren’t they all the same?) but she quickly realized that there are lots of different options. What would she be toasting? 2 slices, 4 slices, or bagels? What color did she want? White, red, stainless steel? Did she want a reheat button? Confusing!! Should she spend more for a popular name brand? Should she just choose an American made product? Does warranty even matter?

Guess what?? She would be having the EXACT SAME decision process if she was buying windows. Everyone starts out thinking every window is the same. Then they start learning about glass package and construction and operation and options and ratings and pretty soon they get overwhelmed. Sometimes they throw up their hands and spend twice as much on a popular name brand. Sometimes they choose an American made product, and sometimes (SOMETIMES) they look at warranty.

Here is the thing. Warranty matters. Every single time on every single product you ever buy. It doesn’t matter how long you shop or how hard the buying decision is for you  -  even how much you spend. Warranty matters. I believe that the bigger the investment, the more the decision should be based on the warranty.

So no surprise that I also believe that when you are looking to make an investment in your home that the warranty of the product should be high on the list of things you look at. Why would you choose to spend more money on a product that you know you will need to replace in 15 or 20 years.

Given the choice  which would you choose? 1) All the options you want, reasonable price, 30 year non pro-rated warranty. 2) All the options you want, up to twice as expensive, 15 year prorated warranty.

Don’t waste your money on a product with a poor warranty.   Get all the options you want, spend an amount of money you are comfortable with and always check the warranty!

Call Steve the Window Guy from Universal Windows Direct and have him show you our exclusive line of windows and doors. He can work with you to determine the options, color and styles that work best with your house. Give him a chance to show you how our warranty is one of the best in the business, and how our factory direct pricing model can save you hundreds of dollars on your next project.

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Patio Door Replacement: Replace your Patio Door with Universal Windows Direct

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

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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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