There are plenty of choices available to Calgary homeowners when it comes to getting replacement windows for their house.
But one of the biggest, and ultimately decisive factors in the success is the kind of company you decide to go with.
Before you even begin to look at the product, as a potential customer you have to decide which type of company works best for you. There are “full-service” approach companies that manufacture and install their own windows. There are also dealers that sell and install products from one or multiple companies. And there are suppliers themselves that manufacture the product but work either with dealers of customers directly.
We generally preach about the advantages of the full-service window replacement company. These kinds of companies usually assign one project manager to your replacement, so you’re not stuck trying to correspond with different parties. Because everything is done in-house, the responsibility is consolidated and it is generally much easier and faster to get service if there is a service problem or a warranty claim.
Today we will look at two Calgary window companies, a full-service replacement company, and a supplier that works with dealers. But even though these companies take different approaches to custom windows, you will see that the issues they have in common are very similar.
Lux Windows and Glass
Homestars: 8.9
BBB: A+ (accredited since 1994)
ABOUT
Lux Windows and Glass has on the Calgary market since 1969. They are one of the oldest window companies in Western Canada. The company has their own manufacturing facility and produces all their own windows and glass. They specialize in both renovation and new construction projects. Lux is an example of a full-service company as they manufacture, sell, install, and service their own windows. The company also has a designated service department which is important for companies like this, as it helps process and make repairs much more efficiently.
PRODUCT
Besides the standard range of PVC windows, Lux also has aluminum-clad casement and awning windows. The company also offers 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 provides 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.
Labour warranty from Lux deserves a special mention here. Currently, there is a BBB complaint about how the company offered a client one price for additional service, only to send them a much higher final quote. Unfortunately, this is quite common in the industry. Lux ultimately resolved the problem in client’s favor, but it just further goes to show that you should hold project consultants accountable by making them put what they say in writing. You can read the negative review and the company’s resolution on their BBB page. It is worth mentioning however that the company has not had any BBB complaints or negative claims in the last year.
Lux boasts a good score on Homestars with overall great levels of satisfaction from the clients. The customers who did leave negative feedback on the company’s Homestars page complained about a lack of follow up regarding service or warranty issues. This is quite a common problem with all window companies in Canada. What matters is whether the company is working to improve their customer relations, and it does seem so in the case of Lux Windows and Glass.
JELD-WEN
Homestars: N/A
BBB: Not Accredited
About
JELD-WEN started as a millwork plant in the United States in 1960 and expanded into Canada in 1996. Today they are one of the largest window and door manufacturers in the world. Jeld-Wen is a supply only company and works with numerous dealers. While you are comparing the company for the quality of the product, remember that window installation is just as important in ensuring maximum performance and efficiency in your home.
Product
The company produces all standard styles of windows in wood, aluminum-clad wood, and vinyl options. They also offer a variety of entry and patio doors. It is important to remember that JELD-WEN supplies product to numerous companies and renovation department stores like Home Depot. Regardless of the quality of Jeld-Wen’s product it will be important to find a dealer or window installer that will be able to perform the installation correctly.
Certifications
Energy Star Rated
2012 Energy Star Manufacturer of The Year
Warranty
For residential windows, JELD-WEN offers a warranty of 20 years on wood and wood clad windows. Their vinyl window warranty is for as long as the homeowner owns the residence. Your warranty may not be transferable if you decide to sell your home. The company also offers a 20-year warranty on insulated triple pane glass units. They do offer several forms for after sales service, and info on filling out a warranty claim, but in most cases you will most likely have to turn to the company or dealer that sold you the windows to complete a warranty claim. This is another point of importance if you are considering JELD-WEN products: while the manufacturer may provide warranty on the hardware, make sure you figure out who is responsible for completing service that is related to potential installation problems shall they arise. Generally, Canadian window companies offer labour warranty between two and ten years. Make sure that the dealer you end up going with provides and explains labour warranty in case there are mistakes made during the installation.
While there are some negative reviews about the quality of their product online, most customers seem generally satisfied with the service they received when working directly with the company. It may be worrisome that the company doesn’t have a direct Homestars or BBB rating, but you should be more concerned about the ratings for the dealers that carry JELD-WEN’s product, as that is more likely where the problem will arise.
Conclusion
Both of these companies are some of the oldest on the Canadian market. Though this isn’t always a sign of excellence or exceptional work, the reasons for these companies existing for this long is more than justified.
Lux is a full-service company that manufactures and installs their own windows. Jeld-Wen is a manufacturer that deals with multiple dealers and contractors. Each company’s approach is ultimately better for different types of customers, but in both cases your main concern should be the quality of workmanship and window installers.
Both of these companies have warranty policies that need clarifying, so make sure you ask all the questions you need to understand just what is covered and for how long.
Regardless of the negative feedback in some cases, both of these companies have a good reputation on the Canadian market, and should be considered when you are scheduling quote appointments for your custom windows.
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
Cossins Windows and Doors vs. Greg Martineau Projects
Meridian Windows and Doors vs. Weather Pro
Cossins Windows vs. Lux Windows
Lux Windows vs Gienow Windows
Lux Windows vs. Supreme Windows