You know the names of these companies. The household names you see advertising on TV.
The “sign today and you get a free can opener” or “we can take off another $10k if you sign today”. These are the companies like Renewal By Andersen or Window Nation.
I’m Nathen and I’ve worked for one of those nation-wide window companies for over 10 years…
And I’m here to tell you there are some good reasons why you should avoid them.
5 Reasons To Avoid Nation-Wide Window Companies
All it takes to understand more about these household names is to do your due diligence before replacing your windows with them.
Here’s why it’s best to avoid them:
#1. They Have A Ton Of Overhead
They’re huuuuge companies, and their overhead matches that. This means their advertising costs, rent, gas, trucks, equipment, sales commissions, etc., are all baked into your quote!
The overhead of a local window installer is minimal, but we’re no match to a window mogul who’s monopolizing the market and forcing their inflated prices onto homeowners.
#2. Highly Inflated, Ridiculously Overpriced Windows
Because all that overhead is baked into your quote, their quote is twice what it should be.
We’ve heard stories of several windows being quoted for well over $40,000, when in reality, the cost shouldn’t be higher than $20,000.
We also know that when faced with resistance, they find all sort of ways to drop their prices just so they can still close the deal.
#3. Heavy Handed Sales Tactics
This nation-wide window companies all operate with commissioned salesmen who go beyond what’s moral to close a sale.
For them, the higher the quote, the higher their commission, so of course they want to inflate the costs as much as they can.
Some of the most popular sales tactics they use are:
- "Sign today for a free can holder, pen, nootebook, etc."
- "Sign today for an extra $5,000 off"
- Massive discounts that you see from a mile they're fake
- Shady 'terms and conditions' to avoid any accountability
- "No exception" advertising with a small * saying "Read the exceptions"
All these designed for a single thing: to make you rush and sign the contract without getting another bid to compare.
Renewal by Andersen and Window Nation are notorious for heavy handed, unethical, and very aggressive sales tactics.
#4. Often Subpar Window Installation
I’m saying ‘often’ because the tradesmen installing the windows are not always wrong.
However, we’ve had many homeowners call us to replace new windows installed by these large companies just because they started leaking within a year.
Many employees will cut corners and deliver a subpar installation just to call it a day and go home.
#5. Nation-Wide Window Companies Do No Follow-Ups
Once they’re done and out of your home, you’ll never hear from them again.
So if the windows started leaking or they’re drafty, you’re on your own.
This doesn’t always happen, and not in all the states they operate, but it’s a common complaint for these large window companies.
The Benefits of Replacing Windows With RbA Or Window Nation
If after you compare their quotes to a local installer and they’re similar, you might be able to trust these companies with your new windows or doors.
Even if they have a reputation for aggressive and predatory pricing, their windows are still good.
They’re big companies so they’ll most likely never go bankrupt, so if you start a project with them it’ll get done.
Renewal By Andersen Vs. Local Window Businesses
RbA and Window Nation have been two of the household names in the window industry here in Nashville Metro and throughout the US.
But from a multitude of reasons, it’s just so much better to support a local, family-owned business.
- You'll get a more personalized process where you are the front and center at all times
- You'll get a fair, detailed quote for your new windows
- You'll get a window installation up to the manufacturer specs
- You'll get a lifetime warranty on products and installation
- You'll get high-quality windows at 0 or very little markup
- You'll get regular follow ups to ensure your satisfied with your new windows
With Windows For Life, upgrading your windows and doors will be a much easier home improvement where you’ll fully enjoy the experience. We make it easy, because that’s how it’s supposed to be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Renewal By Andersen or Window Nation overpriced?
Without a shadow of doubt, they are. Everyone is saying that, and we know it precisely because we’re in the same business and we know how much we charge for new windows.
These nation-wide window companies have outrageous markups, and if you don’t know any better, they’ll make you think it’s the fair price.
Are local window installers any better?
I can’t guarantee for all of them. Here at Windows For Life, we take pride in offering homeowners a fair and detailed quote where they’ll see exactly how much they’re paying for the products and labor.
We also don’t upsell anything you don’t need and we work with you to accommodate and meet your needs.
Do you offer the same warranty on your products?
How much do new windows cost with you?
It depends on the measurements, the scope of work, the brands, and the materials. Generally, the cost to install a window starts from $1,200 and can go up to $3,000 on premium, larger windows. You’ll get a detailed quote that comes with a real price-match guarantee. If you get a lower bid from anywhere else, we’ll match it and give you a bonus.
What's a nation-wide window company?
You know them very well, but probably by their brands name. If you’ve seen them on TV, if you know they operate throughout the US, and if they have thousands of reviews online, they’re a nation-wide window company.
Why should I choose a local installer instead?
It’s easy. For local, family-owned businesses you’re the front and center, not just another job. You’ll support a local business and not a hedge-funded, international company. You’ll get a better price, a better service, and a more pleasant experience where you’ll feel listened to.
We’re also way better at standing behind our craftsmanship because we’re local, and word spreads fast.