Universal Windows Direct, of Minneapolis and St. Paul

Universal Windows Direct: Making us Memorable

Melissa Brager — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 23:07:50 +0000

Window replacement companies in the Twin Cities. Do you want to guess at how many there are? It seems like there are thousands. I can only imagine how confusing it must be for a homeowner to make a decision on which company to call for an estimate. Even when a homeowner goes to a home show to look at windows it can be overwhelming because (and I swear I am not exaggerating here) 25-50% of the vendors at some shows will sell you a window. Is it easier if you are looking for a siding or roofing contractor? I don’t think so.

Remember Us?

The challenge for us is being memorable. So what can we do to become memorable? When you see us at a home show what makes you stop and talk to us? When you are surfing online for information what makes you stop on our page and explore for awhile? What can we do to help you remember us?

I overhear sales guys on the phone making calls to homeowners they just met last week. Those phone calls oftentimes start like this. “From Universal Windows Direct. Universal Windows Direct. Universal. Windows. Direct.” Our name just isn’t ringing any bells to them. They have looked at and talked to so many different window companies that everybody has started to sound alike. No matter how much fun they had in their home talking about their project with us, they just don’t remember that the guy calling them on the phone is the one they liked. Sometimes the homeowners actually say “Hold on while I get my notes” and then they come back and say “OH HI!! We like you! Thanks for calling!”

Sure, it sounds a bit crazy but it makes sense. It is human nature. Shopping for windows can be like shopping for that perfect pair of dress pants. Do you remember the last time you ventured into the Mall looking for pants? After shopping for hours you finally decide on the perfect pair and you get ready to make your purchase. But where was that store again? What was the name of it? Suddenly every store you go in to looks the same. All the pants look the same. All the sales people sound the same. You’re so overwhelmed that you don’t care anymore. “These pants are fine”, you tell yourself. “The price isn’t what I wanted but it is fine” You just want to be done. You make the purchase and cross it off your list.

So here is my point. We have plans to make us more memorable. Big plans. Plans to make us stick in your head.. catchy plans if you will. Plans to make you smile when you see us. We want you to know that when you are looking for a window siding or door contractor we are the ones you are looking for. We don’t want there to be a doubt in your head that its us. You are going to love working with us and we are going to take good care of you.

We can’t wait to show you what we’ve been working on. Next week’s blog is going to be a doozie. See you then!

Author:Melissa Brager

Tips on Visiting Home Shows

Replacement Window Contractors in Twin Cities

Hiring a Window Contractor

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Window and Door Replacement Problems: Why expecting problems can make your project better

Melissa Brager — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 19:11:55 +0000

Window and Door Replacement Jobs can have problems. Knowing what to expect can make your job go more smoothly even if a problem is experienced.

A very VERY long time ago I worked at an amusement park. While I was there I spent a few summers interviewing teenagers for jobs – which was really just a big “realistic job preview” song and dance. It was a total “no surprises” kind of work statement and it went like this:

“You are working outside. Your uniform is shorts. When it is cold out you will need a sweatshirt. When it is hot out you will sweat. When it rains all day you will be very wet. If there is a storm, we stay open. If the storm is very very bad, we will evacuate. This is part of the job. Some days you will talk to hundreds of people. Some days you might only talk to 5 people. You will hear the exact same question repeatedly all day long. This is what you can expect”

Then I asked if they still wanted the job and if they said yes we hired them. We figured that if they knew everything that could go wrong at the beginning and were still interested that all would be fine. For the most part, it was. Some kids were surprised at how much they didn’t like working in the rain, for example, but they weren’t surprised that they had to work in the rain. They were prepared.

As a business owner, I think of that situation now. I understand it would be sales sabotage if our salesman sat face to face with a homeowner and listed out everything that could go wrong as they sign the contract and collect the initial investment. But at the same time, it sure would be nice if we could prepare homeowners and say something like this:

“90% of the time jobs go very smoothly, however we do expect to have some problems some of the time. Our windows are made by real people in a real factory. They are USA made and they keep people working, and towns functioning. We are proud of this. At the same time we know that mistakes happen. To help you prepare, here is a list of problems that could affect your job.

Sometimes windows get broken or screens get gouged on the truck
Sometimes an entire job is loaded on the truck, but one window is forgotten.
Sometimes a window breaks when coming off the line and has to be remade
Sometimes the weather gets nasty and installation needs to be delayed.
Sometimes an issue with an order isn’t discovered until it gets to the job site.
Sometimes an order gets measured wrong.
Sometimes an order gets placed wrong. Or Lost.
Sometimes an order gets made wrong.
Sometimes there is a misunderstanding on how the install will work.
Sometimes our installer might get sick, or have a personal emergency, or have truck or trailer problems. He is a person too, this is unavoidable.”

I wonder how people would react if we did this. Would preparing them for the potential of issues make a difference? Would they shrug their shoulders in acceptance? Would they expect more issues and then be even more thrilled when their job was smooth? It’s an interesting thought to consider, but I don’t think we’ll start doing it anytime soon.

This is the only thing we know for sure. No matter what may happen some of the time, we know that ALL OF THE TIME you want a contractor who will acknowledge the problem, empathize with your frustration and then fix it as fast as possible. We can never control the uncontrollable but we can always control our reaction, and our ability to resolve. We want your home improvement to be a home improvement. We want you to love it when it’s done so you tell all your friends.

If you are ready to start your window, siding, or door replacement project that will most likely go very smoothly (but could potentially have a surprise hiccup) call us today. Quotes are always free. (612) 866-2888.

Author: Melissa Brager, Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct, MN

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Hiring a Window Contractor: Why going with your gut is a good idea

Melissa Brager — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:01:23 +0000

Hiring a replacement window contractor can be tricky. Go with your gut. In my “former life” as an HR professional we had to always make decisions with facts. Facts. Facts. Facts. Hiring decisions were based on skills and work experiences.. We were literally told to ignore our gut. Guess what? When you are the homeowner and you are considering making an investment into your home GO WITH YOUR GUT!!

He seems friendly, right?

Like it or not, any home improvement project, from just a window replacement or door replacement or new vinyl siding to a full on room remodeling project means your home is exposed. Your life is disrupted (if only for a day) and your home undergoes change. You don’t want to trust that to just anyone. You certainly don’t want to trust it to just the “guy with the lowest price”. What DO you want?

The best product. The product that looks and feels like “your house”
The best warranty. You don’t want to buy the cheapest stuff and then go through this all again in a few years, do you?
The contractor with a good reputation. You checked him out, right? He isn’t the guy the BBB has listed with an “F” rating, or the guy with unresolved complaints against him in the double digits, right?
The contractor who is punctual, clean, put together, and well… likeable. If he is in your home to give you a quote and you ALREADY don’t like him (because he is rude, or talks down to you or talks over your head, or who you catch in a lie, etc) why would you invite him back?
The contractor who listens to you. It’s all any of us want, really. To be listened to. Ask questions.. Tell him your concerns. Give him a chance to answer everything and put any concerns you have to rest. Sometimes the sign of the best contractor isn’t the one who necessarily tells you what you want to hear, but the one who responds to you the most honestly

So next time you or someone you know is ready to talk to a window, siding, or door contractor they can trust, contact us. Experience what a non pushy, honest, and trustworthy home improvement contractor can be like!

Author: Melissa Brager, Universal Windows Direct

Color options for replacement windows

Window contractors in the Twin Cities

Twin Cities Window Companies

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Windows: Interior Color options for Replacement Windows in the Twin Cities

Melissa Brager — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 16:23:45 +0000

Universal Windows Direct proudly offers 6 different interior window options for replacement windows in the Twin Cities. So if you are looking to replace your windows you can choose the colors that will be best for you in your home.

White vinyl windows can make a home look fresh and new. Some people love them. Most new construction, in fact, starts with white windows. But some homeowners fear white windows. They fear that. stark WHITE that screams out “HI! I AM A WHITE VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOW!!” That fear that the windows will “scream” actually is a reason some homeowners give as to why they don’t want to replace their windows. We get it.

Your replacement windows don’t have to be WHITE. They can be tan if that will soften it up. They can be dark chocolate brown (mmm, like a truffle) if that matches the style of your home. They can even come in wood grains to match the older style of the home, the

Tan, brown or a wood grain?

existing wood windows, or the surrounding trim work, cabinetry or wood floors. Would a light honey oak match well? Would a medium oak color be better? How about a deeper cherry? No problem! We offer all of those colors.

Do all your windows have to be the same color? Nope! So if you have thought about white replacement windows in the basement to brighten things up down there but you would prefer a wood grain window on the main level; we can do that. Because all of our windows are custom made for your home we can choose the style and options of window that will work best for you, in your budget, in your home.

Call us today to get started with a free consultation. We will bring a window into your home in the color you are thinking of, and bring color samples of other options as well. We can’t wait to work with you to replace those old windows and improve the look of your home. Join homeowners across the Twin Cities who have improved the look and the value of their home with replacement windows. 612-866-2888

Author: Melissa Brager

Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct, MN

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Vinyl Window Options: Available options for your replacement windows

Melissa Brager — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:08:23 +0000

Replacement Window Options always make people stop and think.. ”Is it worth it?”

For example, window frames are often hollow.

The exclusive UniShield window, offered by Universal Windows Direct has a foam filled main frame option. It seems like a no brainer… why wouldn’t you insulate everything you can possibly insulate knowing that winter is awful? Especially when the foam filled frame upgrade is less than $20 per window?

We run into people all the time who tell us that foam filled frames are not needed. Some will even go so far as to tell us that air is a better insulator. OR that they “don’t believe in insulation”. That’s just crazy talk.

Top 5 reasons to choose Foam Filled Frames on your replacement windows

1) Air is not an insulator at all. I checked. (Google – “is air an insulator?”)

2) Insulation exists. (It isn’t the Easter Bunny. You don’t need to decide if you “believe in it or not”. )

3) Insulating attics is one of the top home improvements every single year.

4) Homes have insulation in the walls. When a builder is building a house for you he just insulates the walls. It isn’t a debate on whether or not the house would be warmer with just air. It’s because it wouldn’t be.

5) We wear winter coats each year to insulate our bodies from the COLD AIR! I know this list is getting silly now. But that is the point. It’s just straight up silly to think air is a better insulator in your window frames than actual insulation. It isn’t. Get the upgrade and be glad you did.

You don’t need to take my word for it. Here is a little snip from the Energy.Gov website on Vinyl Frame Windows.

“ Vinyl window frames are usually made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with ultraviolet light (UV) stabilizers to keep sunlight from breaking down the material. Vinyl window frames do not require painting and have good moisture resistance. The hollow cavities of vinyl frames can be filled with insulation, which makes them thermally superior to standard vinyl and wood frames?”

If you’re interested in getting a free quote for those windows or doors (with or without insulation in the frames) call us today at 612-866-2888.

Author: Melissa Brager

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Richfield Homes: Replacement Windows by Universal Windows Direct

Melissa Brager — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 17:48:26 +0000

Universal Windows Direct has replaced windows in Richfield homes for years. As we get ready for the Richfield Home Show this Saturday, take a look at how these homes were transformed by replacing a few windows. Do you recognize any? They could be your neighbors!

Is your home next? Swing by the Richfield Home Show this Saturday, schedule your free in home estimate and take advantage of special show savings! Can’t make it out? No problem! Call us at 612-866-2888

Melissa Brager, Operations Manager

Universal Windows Direct

Richfield Home Show Details

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Richfield Home Show: Universal Windows Direct will be at the Richfield Home Show

Melissa Brager — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 23:09:32 +0000

The Richfield Home & Garden Expo is just about a week away! Once again this year, Universal Windows Direct will be there, ready to talk with residents about replacement windows, siding, front doors and entry doors. It doesn’t matter if you have one window or a house full of windows, we want to work with you to start making your home warmer, more energy efficient and more comfortable for you and your family.

With a full array of window styles, options, colors and upgrades, we are confident that we can find the replacement window or door solution for every Richfield Home. Stop by our booth to see the quality of the windows and patio doors for yourself. Enjoy additional savings for signing up for a quote at the show!

Richfield is our home. You have probably seen our vehicles around town.

We have lived here for over 20 years, and we have based our business here. Of all the window companies you will see at the show, we are your Richfield Residents, ready to keep making Richfield better, one house at a time!

We would love to see you at the show. For more information visit the Richfield Patch article or review the flyer below – seen in local SUN Newspapers!

See you soon!

Melissa Brager

Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct

Visit Universal Windows Direct at a Home Show

Tips for Visiting a Home Show

Home Improvement can start small

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Twin Cities Replacement Window Contractors: Universal Windows Direct

Melissa Brager — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 23:17:43 +0000

Twin Cities replacement window contractors seem to be everywhere…. how are you supposed to keep them all straight? It probably seems that every time you open up a coupon packet, turn on the TV or visit a local home improvement show you are surrounded by ads for windows. So how are you supposed to choose? How is one company actually different than another company? How are you expected to choose one when they all say the same thing? You know what I say? Go with your Gut.

Universal Windows Direct has been serving the replacement window needs of Twin Cities residents for year. We provide high quality, energy efficient replacement windows at competitive prices.

What makes Universal Windows Direct different from other Twin Cities replacement window contractors?

We have replaced hundreds and hundreds of windows for customers all over the Twin Cities – probably even for some of your neighbors!
We are a family owned business, ensuring that your family receives the best service possible.
We offer colors, styles, and price points for every home and every budget. We won’t convince you to buy more than you need just so we can make a bigger profit.
We have sold energy efficient windows for under $200 to our contractor clients.
We maintain an A rating with the BBB and enough positive reviews on Angie’s List to win a Super Service Award in 2011.
We sell a better quality replacement window than the ones some of our competitors are charging double for.
No high pressure salespeople. Really. We don’t like to be pressured by people, so why would we pressure you?

If these reasons aren’t enough for you, then call some other Twin Cities replacement window contractors. After a meeting with them you will understand the Universal Window Direct Difference. Quotes are always free and we would love to meet you and have a chance to earn your business.

Melissa Brager

Operations Manager

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Replacement Windows: Twin Cities Home Show Window Company

Melissa Brager — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 20:41:26 +0000

Your mind is spinning.

You spent hours in the Metrodome over the weekend talking to vendor after vendor after vendor about every project on your wish list. You looked at so many pictures that your window replacement project suddenly turned into a bathroom remodel, a new deck, and some custom roll-outs for your kitchen. You bought salsa mix, a new pillow and some new sheets. You gathered business cards and company literature like crazy and once your bag was full you decided you were done. As you walked up the 79 steps (or so) to get out of the Dome you started wishing you had also bought a hot tub or a sauna to soothe your aching muscles.

But the instant you stepped outside and that biting cold hit your face you were back in reality. Windows. All that dreaming was fun but the fact remains that you still have that super drafty window in the living room by your favorite chair. And don’t forget that window in your bedroom that is not only completely fogged up but actually has frost in between the panes of glass right now. You wish you would have set appointments to get it priced out. Back to reality.

So here you are sorting through information and looking up companies online. We thank you for stopping in our booth and we thank you again for looking us up online today. Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities, is a family run business offering the exclusive UniShield line of windows and doors.

We offer a foam filled main frame for extra insulation
Super spacer is standard in the glass package for longevity in window performance.
Options are available for every home and budget – including white, tan, and brown windows with maintenance free wood grain interiors.

So if you are a homeowner looking for replacement windows in the Twin Cities, contact us today and get started with a free quote. In as little as 6 weeks you can be enjoying your new, energy efficient windows.

Considering a new patio door and/or entry door? No problem! Quotes are always free, and you’ll quickly see that the price does reflect when you buy direct.

Thanks for checking us out and we’ll talk to you soon!

Author: Melissa Brager

Operations Manager, Universal Windows Direct, Twin Cities

Tips for Visiting a Home Show

Factory Direct Pricing on Windows

UniShield

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New Year – New Start: Universal Windows Direct Resolutions

Melissa Brager — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:03:50 +0000

Part of me thinks that New Year’s Day is a silly holiday. If you aren’t a football fan there really isn’t anything to DO. There aren’t specific New Year’s Day foods, or traditions or activities. It is really just a day to sleep in and re-evaluate your life, your plans, and move forward with a fresh start.

So what are your resolutions? Are they fitness related? Relationship related? Career focused? Home Improvement focused? More importantly, how will you know that you’ve achieved them? Is someone else holding you accountable? Are you checking in with yourself? Are you writing them down?

I actually started to write them down, then I realized they are always the same. So this year I’m going to do monthly resolutions. THIS month we have a few weekends consumed by Home Improvement shows, so I will focus on buying and packing healthy food for us to eat while we are working. I will embrace the crock pot. =)

The baby, I am certain, will focus on cutting teeth and crawling.

The business will focus on having a great January. We will smile and greet you when you visit us at the show. We will give you great service and will offer show discounts. We will continue our plans to market our business in a bigger and better way. We will seek constant improvement. Little by little. Day by day. Year by Year.

Are you along for the ride? Hope so. See you soon.

Melissa Brager, Operations Manager
Universal Windows Direct, MN

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