Even the best window system won't perform to its stated specification if it's installed poorly. That's why the question "windows only, or with installation" matters more than it might seem at first glance.
Why installation matters so much
Incorrect frame levelling, the wrong expanding foam, missing vapour barrier tape, or improper support for heavy sashes are the most common causes of problems: leaking seals, sashes that are hard to close properly, or thermal bridges that cancel out the benefits of an otherwise expensive, high-quality window.
When windows only makes sense
Buying windows alone makes sense when you already have an experienced construction crew that regularly installs windows and will take responsibility for that part of the work. This option is often chosen for larger projects, where a general contractor coordinates the whole construction schedule.
When it's worth ordering windows with installation
If you want a single point of responsibility for the whole process - from choosing the system, through delivery, to removing the old windows and adjusting the new ones - windows with installation eliminate the risk of the window supplier and the installation crew blaming each other in case of a defect. It's also the more convenient option when replacing windows in a home you already live in, where efficient scheduling and cleanup afterwards really matter.
What to check regardless of your choice
- Whether installation includes adjusting sashes and hardware after the window has settled into the wall (materials "settle" over the first few weeks)
- Whether disposal of the old windows is included in the price
- Whether the crew uses a proper system-level (warm) installation method, not just foam without additional sealing tapes
- A clearly defined warranty - separately for the windows and for the installation work
Warranty - who's responsible if something goes wrong
This is an important difference that's easy to overlook when comparing price. When buying windows only, the manufacturer covers the product itself (profile, hardware, glass), but installation quality is the responsibility of whoever fitted it - if that's a different company than the window supplier, sorting out a problem (e.g. a draft appearing after a few months) means first establishing whether the fault lies in the window or the installation, before anyone takes responsibility. Ordering windows with installation from a single contractor removes that boundary entirely - one company is responsible for the whole job, which in practice means a faster, simpler claims process.
You can read more about how this works with us - including our own installation crew - in the Installation & Projects section.
Have a question about choosing windows? Call us, free advice.
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