Author: searspro (---.chi.dsl-w.verizon.net)
Date:
I was a Sears window installer for 5 years, and now a service tech for Sears. I haven't researched window quality or r-factors (or U). I couldn't even tell you what they mean. What I can tell you is this. In my career with Sears, I have installed thousands of replacement windows, with alot of repeat customers. I personally had very few service or satisfaction issues. In fact, I can say, there were many very satisfied customers that loved their new windows, Even years later, through several Minnesota winters. If I had to narrow it down, I would say the install is crucial! The best window in the world, sucks if not installed properly. I did re-install several that had been screwed up by a new crew. You'll have that from time to time, with Sears, these installers were quickly spotted and relieved of their duties. I can't tell you how much money these customers saved in heating bills, but, I can tell you that many were impressed with how much quieter their house was after the install. I could barely hear my outside helper through a Sears 7,000 series, (now called WEATHERBEATER MAX). I have done several side jobs using an inferior brand of window, and installed Sears "good" window. The weight difference between the WBM and those other windows is crazy. You just can tell that it is a better quality window. I haven't installed Andersen or schucco, so I can make no comparison. The Sears "best" window has proven itself to me thousands of times. Now that I'm a service tech, I can tell you that probably 80 percent of window issues are due to installer error, and there aren't many. The rest of the window issues are problems that have been remedied on the new windows. for a while Simonton had a problem with stress cracks in the glass, some would crack the same day as installed, some would crack in the truck en route to Sears, some cracked several days after install. I don't know (or care) why, the problem has been solved. There are very few mechanical issues with a properly installed Sears window. I would recommend Sears for windows to my grandma. But I would install them myself, to avoid install issues. I would recommend demanding the best crew they have and no newbies!! Even ask to see a job they have completed in your area, if they're a stand-up crew, they won't mind at all. I've found most customers glad to show off their windows to a prospective new customer!!!
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