Discount Windows: What to Look for When Shopping

Written by: R. Ann Sipper

Discount windows can be found at wholesale warehouses, resale retail locations, and salvage yards that buy unused and used windows in working condition. Discount windows can be found in almost every style, ranging from awning windows to bay windows.

Many homeowners consider discount windows as an option to save money while trying to maintain or increase the value of their property. Whether you are buying one window or 10, the savings can be significant.

Pros and cons of discount windows

Saving money is the most obvious advantage to purchasing discount windows. Finding windows for sale in bulk is another. If you’re looking to replace a large number of standard-sized windows, finding a selection of returned windows is a great way to do it on a budget.

Unfortunately, many discount windows are sold "as is," without a warranty. This means once you purchase the window, you’re responsible for any wear and tear issues that may arise over the life of the window. Before purchasing discount windows, it's best to determine if the cost of any future maintenance issues outweighs the cost of the savings.

Many discount window sellers also operate under a cash-and-carry policy. This means you can buy the wholesale or discount windows only with cash and the seller won’t accept any returns.

Shopping for discount windows

When shopping for discount windows, it's best to avoid windows in obvious states of disrepair. This can include signs of warping, damage to the frame, or even cracks in the glass. These can all indicate that the windows have been improperly transported or stored.

Always consult with the shop owners for their policies on returns and exchanges. As mentioned before, many dealers will not accept returns on discount windows. This isn’t always the case, however, so try to find dealers who allow refunds or at least exchanges at a minimum to ensure you're spending the money wisely.

Saving money shouldn’t be the only important reason for shopping for discounts windows. While saving money and sticking to a budget is typically an important point for investing in discount windows, the cost of future repairs can far outweigh the amount of money saved at the time of purchase.

When purchasing your discount windows, consider future costs for installing and maintaining the windows, and compare that to the cost of new windows sold in a traditional retail setting. This can help you determine if discount windows are right for you.

Ready to find dealers who can find you discount windows that fit your needs? Use BuyerZone’s free request for windows price quotes service, and we’ll connect you with several different dealers whose products and services you can review before buying.