Window replacements aren’t cheap. And they definitely shouldn’t feel like a gamble. Yet homeowners all over fall for deals that sound dreamy but turn into drafty nightmares.
In episode two of Stay Glassy, Duncan and Maria are breaking down the five biggest mistakes people make when buying windows. From sketchy sales tactics to ignoring the fine print on installation, it’s clear: one bad choice can cost you thousands or worse, years of regret.
Here’s how to avoid ending up on the wrong side of the glass.
Mistake #1: Falling for the “Too Good to Be True” Deal
“If you see an advertisement and it says ‘whole house special $49.95,’ we always see those a lot… It’s just kind of silly.”
This one’s almost too easy to fall for. A flashy ad, a low price, and the promise of a fully windowed home makeover, all for less than dinner for four at a decent restaurant. But as Duncan points out, how many houses actually have four windows and one door?
Here’s the trick: companies use ultra-low prices to get in the door (literally), then upsell the real costs once they’ve locked in your interest. And if that weren’t enough, there’s the sneaky financing trap.
“Four years free financing? That has an incredible cost to it,” he warns. “The company offering that is inflating their prices to cover the expense. You’re going to be paying way too much.”
What to do instead:
- Be skeptical of unrealistically low offers.
- Ask for itemized quotes and compare apples to apples.
- Watch out for long-term financing gimmicks. Someone’s paying for it, and it’s probably you.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Energy Efficiency
“If you’re still living with single-pane windows in 2025, you’re just wasting energy.”
Energy efficiency isn’t a buzzword. It’s a bill-saver. In Southern California, where temperatures and UV levels can get intense, your windows aren’t just for looks, they’re frontline insulation.
Dual-pane windows with Low-E (low emissivity) coatings and a Title 24 energy package are more than enough for the region. Triple-pane? “Probably overkill for Southern California.”
What’s wild is that many homeowners don’t even ask about this, or worse, they pay for features they don’t need because a sales rep said, “More glass is better.”
What to do instead:
- If you’re in a milder climate like SoCal, opt for dual-pane windows with Low-E coatings and argon gas fills.
- Avoid triple-pane unless you’re in freezing climates (think: Wisconsin, not San Diego).
- Prioritize UV protection and heat resistance for your local environment.
Mistake #3: Overlooking Installation Quality
“You can have a really good quality window installed poorly, and you’re not gonna get what you were expecting.”
This might be the most critical point in the episode. A great product is useless in the hands of a bad installer. Unfortunately, poor installation is rampant, usually from companies cutting corners to win bids on price.
Duncan doesn’t mince words: “Having a good installation is critical. Quality caulking, expandable foam, trim, and installers that are trained and know what they’re talking about.”
Too often, homeowners focus on the brand of the window, not the hands installing it. That’s like buying a luxury car and letting a teenager do the engine swap.
What to do instead:
- Choose a company known for installers, not just products.
- Ask about who’s doing the install, their certifications, and what materials they use.
- Don’t go with the cheapest bid unless you love the smell of regret.
Mistake #4: Not Matching the Window to the Environment
“Buy a window that is built for your environment.”
This one’s sneaky. Many buyers assume all windows are created equal, but location matters, a lot. Buying a window designed for freezing Chicago winters is complete overkill in sunny SoCal.
If you live somewhere mild, you don’t need extreme insulation. But you do need UV protection, quality seals, and the right frame materials (think vinyl or fiberglass). This isn’t just about comfort, it’s about longevity and performance.
What to do instead:
- Match your window’s specs to your zip code, not a brochure from the Midwest.
- Ask about regional best practices.
- Don’t pay for what you won’t use, but don’t skimp where it counts.
Mistake #5: Focusing on the Window, Not the Company
“This is really what it comes down to: the installation company that you select for replacing your windows and doors.”
Let’s call it what it is: most window horror stories aren’t about the glass; they’re about the company behind it. A good installer won’t sell junk. A good company stands by its work. And the best ones are transparent, licensed, and local.
As he says, “Nobody that cares about their work, who does a really good job, is gonna sell crap products.”
Reputation matters. So does aftercare. If they disappear after install day, good luck getting them back to fix that misaligned frame.
What to do instead:
- Look up reviews, licensing, and warranties.
- Work with companies that install and stand behind the product.
- Ask what happens if something goes wrong.
Bonus Mistake: Skipping the Warranty Talk
Too many buyers don’t ask, “What happens five years down the line?” If the window fogs up or a seal fails, will the company even be around to fix it?
What to do instead:
- Ask how long the warranty lasts and who honors it.
- Clarify what’s covered: parts, labor, materials, and glass.
- Don’t accept vague answers or “we’ll see” commitments.
Final Frame
Window replacement isn’t just a home upgrade, it’s a major investment. And like any investment, it can go sideways fast if you chase gimmicks, ignore details, or hire the wrong crew.
Duncan reminds us, “You can make a mistake, but if you’re working with a reputable, knowledgeable, expert-based window and door installation company, then you’re on the right track.”
So don’t get framed. Get informed, get choosy, and get windows that work and wow.
Want a free quote without the gimmicks?
Newman Windows & Doors offers expert consultation with transparent pricing and energy-efficient solutions built for SoCal homes.