Home windows: Cost-saving tips

There are additional steps you can take toward saving money when purchasing new home windows. Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind:

• You don’t need to purchase home windows from an installer. Home improvement outlets sell a wide variety of windows and styles, and you may be able to find a good bargain. You can then hire a professional to install them, or do it yourself if you have the proper skills. Be aware of the downside, though. You don’t get as much direct attention from the installer, and the company will only guarantee its work, not the windows themselves.
• If you’re a home improvement enthusiast, you could save significant money by doing the installation yourself. You’d better be extremely confident in your home improvement skills, though – you’ll have to understand the most efficient ways to install, seal, and weatherproof your windows. Even a slight mistake could cost you more in the long run than it would have cost to hire a professional to do the work.
• Most dealers want to ensure that you’re satisfied with the job they do – and with good reason. Happy customers are a great source of referrals. If you tell friends and relatives about the good service and they work with your dealer, the dealer may compensate you with a finder’s fee for spreading the word.

• In addition to potential tax savings, check with your utility company to see if it offers special rebates for homeowners with new energy-efficient windows. This may justify paying a little bit more for glazing or other features, since you would get the money back.
• Purchasing windows provides you with a lot of flexibility. You don’t necessarily have to buy the same windows for different parts of the house. Instead, focus the bulk of your budget on windows for the rooms in which you spend the most time.