Will My Windows Pass Fire Code?

The windows in your home will allow you and your family to escape in the event of a fire. So we need the windows to be big enough to allow the escape, right?

Generally speaking, the window opening must be a large enough so that an adult could exit through it; or a firefighter could get in. Every home is different. Your Universal Windows Direct crew will review your current bedroom windows and will guide you through the replacement window process to make sure your new windows will pass inspection.

The MN State Fire Code has issued the following Statement of Policy for Emergency Escape (Egress) Windows

For more information you can contact your local city inspector or email the MN State Fire Code Board at firecode@state.mn.us.

Do you have a customer referral program?

We love referrals! In fact, referrals from past customers and business associates is one of the ways we are able to offer you such great prices on replacement windows, vinyl siding and doors.

Think about it. People trust their family and friends. Home improvements in the neighborhood are talked about. Once you see the difference in your heating and cooling costs this year you'll be reminded that you have truly made a great investment in your home.

The Customer Referral Program is as way to make even more money. We will give you $100 for every referral you send us who installs new windows, siding or doors through Universal Windows Direct. No limits. Earn enough extra money for a nice dinner out or use the money to start saving for your next home improvement project. Doesn’t that sound nice?

How can you do it? Easy.

1. If a neighbor or friend expresses interest in your new windows give them our number! 612.866.2888 2. Maybe a co-worker has been talking about installing new windows, siding or doors; give them our website! 3. Update your Facebook status with information about your install. Mention us by name. Maybe even post some pictures of how great your house looks. You'll be surprised at how many of your friends comment!

To show our appreciation, we will pay you $100 for each person you refer to us, when that referral leads to a sale.

For more information on this great program, contact the Universal Windows Direct office at (612) 866-2888 or (651) 700-4920.

Window Replacement: Choosing Colors and Grid Patterns

Window color and grid patterns are just a few of the decisions you have to make when choosing a replacement window for your home.    When you invite us out for a consultation we will help you choose from a variety of options.   Generally, you should have an idea of if you want to keep the same sort of look as you have in your home now or if you are interested in changing it.   Replacing windows in your home makes an impact and choosing a different color and adding, changing or removing grids can increase that impact tremendously!

This window is a 3 lite bay in cherry wood grain with the oak framed stained to match,  with wood grain prairie grids.   

Replacement Window Colors

When choosing new windows,  the way they look is almost as important as the way they perform.  Obviously as you choose your windows you want them to be super energy efficient.. But that is on the inside.  The fact of the matter is that the outside of the window is what you’ll look at all the time and what you’ll see when you pull up to your house.  So what do you like?  Are you drawn to a brand new white window because it looks like a fresh and new house?   Do you prefer a tan vinyl to soften it up a bit or a dark brown to match the style of your home?  Better yet, does a wood grain interior option give you the extra warmth in a room you crave?  With four different interior wood grains to choose from we are confident we can help you choose one that go well with your living space. Let's not forget,  the joy of vinyl - even a wood grain vinyl - is that it is maintenance free and will look wonderful for years. 

You may also choose a painted exterior in white, tan, brown, bright red, hunter green, black, beige, bronze, clay and light grey. All of our painted exteriors are guaranteed against fading, peeling or blistering for 20 years. Are you in a townhome? No problem. Our painted exteriors have matched existing colors and been approved by townhome associations across the Twin Cities.

Replacement Window Grid Options

Similarly, window grids can change the appearance of your windows.   You can put grids on just the top sash, the top and bottom sash, or choose no grids at all.  For a more modern look some people like just 2 vertical bars in their window with no horizontal.   If you’ve had the traditional colonial style grids in your house you might want to switch to a prairie view.  You may even want to remove the grids entirely and enjoy a clear view out to the back yard,  or highlight a special room in your house with an etched floral view.   Check out our website for a more complete listing of color and grid patterns available to you.

For a more in-depth guide on window options along with some insider tips and tricks on buying download our FREE eBook here.

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.  

Author:  Melissa Brager 

Good Stuff?   Check out some of our other recent blog posts!

1.  Curb Appeal Matters When Selling Your Home

2.  What to do if you think you have storm damage on your home

3.  Windows, Siding and Roofing are investments into your home

Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is owned and operated in Bloomington, MN by Steve and Melissa Brager.   Steve and his team are experts at working with people just like you to create a plan for updating and enhancing your home exterior to create beauty, warmth and the curb appeal you dreamed about;  at a price within your budget.    We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted the company to the 16th remodeler in the Nation*.  Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints and have won the Angie's Super Service Award 5 consecutive years.  Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of The Year three different times for his hard work and dedication.    Updating your home can be easy.  Contact us today!

*Source: 2017 Qualified Remodeler Top 500 list