Most windows and doors have a lifespan of approximately 20 years before they start wearing out and cutting energy efficiency from your home. And if this is your situation and you are about to get new windows or doors, it is crucial to do everything right, choose the best products and ensure you are left satisfied for the next many years to come.

However, shopping for new units is a tough road to go with obstacles on your way. That is why we have contacted Ecoline, window and door installation experts, to talk about the main mistakes homeowners make when trying to get new units for their residences. And, of course, how to avoid those common pitfalls. Without further ado, let's get right into it.

Mistake #1 – Buying Units Based on Cost

The cost is an essential factor when selecting your new windows and doors, but you should remember that it’s not the only one.  The lower the price, the more issues you might come across. It includes low durability, poor warranty or installation, and overall energy efficiency of your units.

Instead of purchasing the cheapest products (or the most expensive), strive to speak with reliable local installers, let them investigate your current windows, their styles and state. Then, ask for a fair quote and compare it with different options on the market. The fundamental rule when buying new windows and doors is – you’ll get what you pay for.

The table below represents a typical price range for the most popular window and door styles within the home location.

Source: Ecoline Windows

Mistake #2 –Wrong Window & Door Type 

Often, homeowners do not pay attention to the window and door type, simply buying the same windows they currently have. This might lead to cutting on energy efficiency and overall window performance. 

Windows and doors last for many years, and since your last replacement, a lot of new technologies and features have appeared. And you need to dedicate some time to learn them. To put it in a nutshell, the wisest choice is to go with a well-known brand with Energy Star ratings and a decent warranty. 

In addition to choosing the right window style, it is also essential to get the correct size of your new units. For this, contact your local window company and let them come, do the measurements and advise you whether the chosen window type will fit your space.

Mistake #3 – DIY Installation

We love DIY and think that it is great for homeowners to improve their homes with some life hacks. But if you want your windows to last long, be energy efficient, and look aesthetically pleasing, going with a DIY approach when replacing windows and doors is not the best idea. Replacing old units is more than simply fitting the frame into the hole in the wall. 

It is a tough job, with every step requiring much expertise and years to train. Your units have to be properly measured, insulated, sealed, fit the frame, painted correctly and block noise from outside. Even if a single step is done wrong - the complete installation will be poor, making your life harder. So, make sure you hire professionals and install your windows and doors correctly with no damage to units and your residence.

Mistake #4 – Not Paying Attention to Security Concerns

Windows and doors play a significant role when it comes to your home's security. That is why it is an important step when choosing your new units. Usually, homeowners do not pay attention to the windows configuration and just go with the basic set of locks and glazing to lower the price. However, nowadays, you can choose a lot of add-ons to make your units harder to break into. This includes:

• Installation of specific glazing to increase a window's resistance to impact and enhance the tint, so people outside find it more difficult to see inside;
• Getting additional hardware;
• Security bar and multiple locks.

Mistake # 5 – Dealing with Unreliable Window & Door Company

This is probably the main mistake most homeowners make when they want to replace their old window and doors. People just go with the first attractive offer out of several quotes they get from their local installers. This is totally wrong. To ensure your new units will serve for many years to come, they should be installed by professionals. Make sure to:

Check the company's reputation and experience. Go online and surf the sites like HomeStars, read the real-customer reviews and analyze what people say about the installer. Moreover, ask your friends and family whether they have dealt with the preferred company earlier.

• Buy only Energy Star products. This guarantees that the overall performance of your new units will be of top quality, helping to reduce energy bills;
• Ask if the company has their products NFRC and NAFS-11 tested. Windows and doors need to comply with industry standards;
• Deal with the company that follows CSA guidelines and the building codes of your area.