When people are looking for home renovation or window replacement companies, the search often begins and ends with the web.
The specific company’s website, Homestars.com, and the Better Business Bureau page are all good sources to see what areas a business excels in, and where it falls short.
But some businesses don’t care about establishing an online presence. Does that make them a bad choice? Not necessarily. But it certainly puts them in a position of disadvantage compared to companies that are transparent online. As we became more attentive to what people were saying about us online, our company was not only able to attract more potential clients, we were able to improve all aspects of our business and leave clients more satisfied.
Today we examine two local Calgary window companies, with very different approaches to their online presence.
Cossins Windows Ltd.
Homestars: N/A
BBB: Not Accredited by BBB
About
Cossins is family owned and operated since their beginning in 1978. The company manufactures their own windows locally, and specializes in replacement window projects. The company also has a local showroom, which you can visit to see their windows for yourself.
Product
Cossins carries the standard range of vinyl windows, as well as aluminum clad, and traditional all wood windows. They also manufacture patio and entry doors from a variety of common materials. Their website features Energy Star information on all the windows they manufacture for easier comparison. A plus to this company’s product range is that they manufacture and install skylights, which not many Canadian window replacement companies specialize in.
Certifications
-Energy Star rated
Warranty
No clear warranty information exists on the Cossins webpage. The company does break down their service procedures in some detail, and even offers an online submission form for a service request. However it’d be best to specify and make sure you understand their warranty policy if you decide to go ahead with a consultation appointment.
Lux Windows and Glass
Homestars: 8.9
BBB: A+ (accredited since 1994)
About
Lux Windows and Glass has been in business since 1969. The company has their own manufacturing facility and produces all their own windows and glass. They specialize in renovation and new construction projects.
Product
Besides the standard range of PVC windows, the company also has aluminum clad casement and awning windows. The company also offers a variety of choices in privacy glass, Low-E coating, and customization options.
Certifications
– CSA certified and Energy Star rated
– 2013 SAM Awards Winner: Supplier of Best Products
Warranty
Lux Windows offers a twenty-five year warranty on its sealed units, frame, sash and hardware components. The company also offers a five-year warranty on labour or issues related to the installation.
Conclusion
It is difficult to assess the real customer experience with Cossins. The company features a lot of bright and positive testimonials on their own website, but beyond that there is very little to be found in terms of any reviews about them online. It is also a cause for concern that the company’s warranty information is not mentioned anywhere on their page. Nor is there any mention of their installers working to CSA standards.
Lux on the other hand, has positive feedback from customers. Some recent negative reviewers expressed frustration with poor quality of customer service and communication with the office. But if you were to research the company you could at least tell that they are invested and attentive to customer reviews.
Both of these companies manufacture their own products, and offer options that would sometimes be hard to find at other Canadian window manufacturers: Cossins manufactures and installs skylights, and Lux makes their own glass.
But before even looking at the product or quality of workmanship, most potential customers would likely be inclined to go with a company that has plenty of reviews in numerous places online, and actually cares to respond and deal with issues that customers bring up in these reviews.
Check out these window company reviews:
What are The Best Calgary Windows and Doors Companies
All Weather Windows vs. Ply Gem
Canadian Choice vs. Meridian Windows and Doors
Supreme Windows and Doors vs. All Star Home
Andersen Windows vs. Ply Gem
Lux Windows vs. Jeld-Wen Windows and Doors
Cossins Windows and Doors vs. Greg Martineau Projects
Meridian Windows and Doors vs. Weather Pro
Lux Windows vs Gienow Windows
Lux Windows vs. Supreme Windows
Click Her To Get a Free Quote for Replacement Windows in Calgary