Since its inception by co founders William Barr and Michael Strmac in 2002, Universal Windows Direct has lived by the philosophy of CANEI - "Constant and Never Ending Improvement". This philosophy holds true in all aspects of our business, from sales and marketing to installation and service and has catapulted UWD from a small, local home improvement company to one of the largest exterior remodeling companies in the country.
Every one of our employees strives continuously to be the best in the business at what they do and provide our customers with only the highest levels of sales, service, and support. We think our company's history speaks to this goal and to the power of what we can accomplish by never settling.
Universal Windows Direct is an award winning home improvement company based in Cleveland, Ohio. Our products feature the exclusive UniShield brand and come with a transferable lifetime warranty on materials and labor. We are a fully licensed, bonded, and insured company and EPA Lead-Safe certified. In addition, a portion of every sale goes to support a growing list of local charities.
The representative was knowledgeable and did his presentation at a good pace so as not to make us feel rushed but not to drag it out. We signed a contract and will have 24 windows installed in 8 weeks.
Description of Work: The windows were very high quality.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$14,000
Edward V.
03/2014
5.0
siding, replacement windows
+ 0 more
The crew arrived right on time, after a courtesy call to tell me they were en route. There was a team of 3. Installation of 4 windows took them right at 3 hours. They were all courteous, professional and skilled. They paid careful attention to detail, laying dropcloths over everywhere they would walk, and meticulously cleaned up after themselves. I had half of my house done, and am looking forward to later in the year when I have the other half done.
Description of Work: New window installation
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
John G.
02/2014
2.0
doors
+ -1 more
We still do also we had a patio door replaced & the screen does not fit right and is of poor quality. We had them look at it they said there was nothing they could do.
Description of Work: When we ordered the windows we had a problem with a loud barking dog, then assured us we would not hear the dog.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
2.0
value
2.0
professionalism
2.0
responsiveness
1.0
punctuality
4.0
$3,500
Chad V.
01/2014
1.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
I set up an appointment for an estimate on windows, which I thought would only take 30-45 minutes to measure and explain the windows. Instead I received a 3 hour lecture on windows and why all other companies cost more, and provide less quality windows. In addition the salesman placed me in a high pressure sale by trying to force me to buy at that moment or I would not receive a good price. The salesman also started out a high price and continuosly dropped it on me in order for me to purchase at that moment which seemed crazy that he could adjust those prices by thousands instead of telling me the cheaper price in the begining which made it seem like he was trying to rip me off from the start. The sales men also kept saying no other company makes windows like ours which I had come to find the next day that another window company which makes the same windows but charges half the price. Universal windows is a rip off, why should anyone have to pay thousands extra for a salesman to make commission off you when I just want and estimate on the windows and explanation of window type. It is crazy how much cheaper all other window companies are and how this company wastes 3 hours of your time with a salesman. Estimate for 11 windows at universal windows was $9,000 and eventually came down to $7,500 after the salesman became desparte, my other to estimates I received for the same exact windows with same energy proofing was $4,000 huge difference.
Description of Work: Quote
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
1.0
professionalism
1.0
responsiveness
3.0
punctuality
1.0
Jim S.
01/2014
5.0
doors, replacement windows
+ 0 more
Already noticed a major improvement in house temperature. It was 3?F today outside when they did the install! No more drafts, and you can feel how much better the windows are just by touching the inside glass. Could not be happier with the entire process from front to back. Highly recommended.
Description of Work: Purchased and installed 27 windows and one sliding patio door. Interior window install took 5 hours! Real pros...no messing around and they cleaned up everything.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$20,000
Cathy B.
01/2014
2.0
doors
+ -1 more
It was not a good experience. I had a lot of issues...I had them put a French doors...there were issues with their installation. They've been back a lot of times since they installed last July and it is still not 100% accurate. There are still a lot of issues with the way they install and finish the door that I am not happy with. I think they've been professional but I just don't find that they have been overly responsive or helpful with my concerns. Ultimately, I am not still happy with their workmanship. They still have no answer on how to address an ongoing problem other than the defect on the actual product. There were a lot of miscommunication between the crew and manager. It could have been prevented with their communication.
Description of Work: I used the door service of Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
2.0
value
5.0
professionalism
4.0
responsiveness
1.0
punctuality
3.0
$9,000
Response from Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland
(member name removed), Thank you for taking the time to let us know how we are doing. It always helps to get feedback from our customer's whether they are elated or concerned. These reviews helped us achieve the Super Service Award with Angie's List two years in row. However, In your case, we need to address the concern with your door and make it right! We will take your feedback seriously and will contact you shortly with a solution. Even though we have a 98% customer approval rating over the thousands of jobs we did last year we also know that bad news travels faster than good. It is.. and will always be... our mission to be perfect with every customer. Please understand that we will be working towards a solution to the concerns you have with your door until you are happy. Thank you once again for taking the time to let us know how we are doing. Sincerely, Mike Universal Windows Direct Customer Service
Susan C.
12/2013
4.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
The salesman really worked with us to get the price to where we wanted it and I know we got a great deal, so it did make me more forgiving in other areas. The new windows look nice, but I can't really speak to the quality yet--I'm watching my gas bill over the winter to see how energy efficient they are. The guys showed up on time, had a big crew and worked quickly. There were really only two things I wasn't so happy about. They didn't do a great job of cleaning up after themselves (adequate, but not great). They were definitely in a hurry to get out of there. They moved furniture to get to the windows, but didn't move any of it back again when they were finished. I had to chase them down as they were getting in their trucks and ask for them to replace the furniture, which they did. I didn't notice until after they were gone that they also moved my air conditioning unit to get to one window, which wasn't returned to its place--so I'll have to take care of that myself in the spring. There was one screen damaged--luckily, I noticed it, since the installer was not going to mention it to me. I called the office and they were very responsive. They got someone out quickly and replaced it. Overall the experience was positive and I'm happy with the windows.
Description of Work: Replaced all windows throughout the house.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
4.0
value
5.0
professionalism
4.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$5,000
Response from Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland
(member name removed), Thank you for taking the time to let us know how were doing. We are pleased to see you had an overall good experience with Universal Windows Direct. It's reviews like yours that helped us receive Angie's List Super Service Award in 2011 and 2012. Let us know if you need anything in the future. Sincerely, Everyone at UWD
Maryann H.
12/2013
2.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
I contacted Universal Windows Direct and set up an appointment. They called and changed the appointment time and date which was OK but the salesman was suppose to contact me to verify the appointment and he did not. He arrived at my house just as my husband and I were leaving because with no verification from the saleman we thought the appointment was cancelled. He was arrogant and refused to give us any quote without at least one and a half hours or both of our time. We received quotes from three other companies who did not even need both of us to be home and we choose one of them to do the work. I would not recommend using this company.
Description of Work: We were looking for quotes on siding and windows.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
value
1.0
professionalism
2.0
responsiveness
2.0
punctuality
1.0
Thomas P.
12/2013
5.0
replacement windows, doors
+ 0 more
Removed old front entry door. And replaced with a new door and side lights. They also installed a new storm door at no charge. The installers were very professional. The new door looks great.
Description of Work: I used UNIVERSAL WINDOWS DIRECT OF CLEVELAND.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$3,209
Response from Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland
Glad To Hear!!!! Let us know if we can help with anything else in the future! Universal Windows Direct
Tony B.
12/2013
4.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
The price did not include the 2 x 2 panes so we paid an additional $25 per sash ($100 total) in addition to the Big Deal price. Was told the windows would be ready in about 6 weeks. They called 6 weeks later to install unfortunately the windows were sized incorrectly so now we have to wait for them to reorder, deliver and install the correct sized windows. We were hoping to have these windows before the holidays, and before we painted the room, but were disappointed on both accounts. Overall, the vendor was more than professional, responsive to my needs and provided a good experience (other than the fact they goofed the windows). I straddle the line regarding whether I would use them in the future as mistakes do happen. I guess it will depend on how well they come back in addressing the error. Will update this review as soon as the correct windows are installed.
Description of Work: Install 2 windows (Bought the Big Deal from the vendor).
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
$800
Response from Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland
We appreciate that you realize mistakes do happen. We will get this problem corrected as soon as possible (the new windows were ordered as soon as we found the problem). Mis-measures are a rare occrrence. We would have met the original timing for install had the correct measurements been taken. We decided not to install the mis-measured windows as our installer, once onsite, recommmended that the exterior trim would be slightly different from the rest of the windows in the home. You, the homeowner may not have even noticed. But that is not how we want to do business. Instead we decided the absorb the cost, and risk not meeting the original timeline, in order to do the job in what we determined to be correct and to our high standards. We do look forward to your final review once the windows are installed and hope this leads to earning future business.
Paul F.
11/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
Was very pleased with the overall work
Description of Work: Everything went as planned with no issues or delays
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$5,300
Response from Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland
Thank you [removed members name] for your review. It is always good to hear back from our satisfied customers.
Renay C.
11/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
Dave demonstrated the benefits of double paned glass windows and their integrity for long lasting wear. He also answered all of our questions without hesitation. He also did not put "down" all of the other window installers. He let us know it was up to the homeowner to decide who was the best installer for them. We loved his honesty, integrity and punctuality. The workers arrived on time and the clean-up was remarkable. They left no trash around. We will use Universal Windows again if needed in the future. I recommended them to my family and neighbors. From the appointment consultation, thru the installation and clean-up everything went very well, and we give them an A+.
Description of Work: We spoke to Justin to set up a meeting date. My husband and I commend Dave Volpe. He arrived on time and his demonstration was flawless and knowledgeable.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$9,200
Susan J R.
11/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
Arrived one-half hour early--8:30 instead of 9:00 AM; luckily, I was ready! Worked quickly and professionally; totally cleaned up after work. Explained/demonstrated operation of windows and answered all my questions. Were finished and gone by 12:00.
Description of Work: Installed four windows
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
4.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$2,300
Response from Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland
(member name removed), Thank you for posting our review. It is always nice to be recognized for the quality of work and the overal process. As for being a half hour early, it is usually better to be a little eary than late. It is difficult sometimes to predict traffic at that time of morning, so we allow a little extra time. In this case we were early. Hopefully you will provide us the opportunity to do the remaining windows in your home when the time comes. Thank you.
a A.
10/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
Sales personnel was informative, friendly, well informed, and knew the product very well. Installation crew was timely, neat, and professional.
Description of Work: Installed replacement windows in home.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$7,000
Kwan C.
10/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
They were punctual & very professional from start to finish. We were very happy with the results! Everything went smoothly & they finished on schedule. We recommend them highly
Description of Work: Installed windows
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$5,500
Response from Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland
[removed member name] Thank you for your nice review. It always good to hear our customers are pleased, and took the time to share their experience with others.
Sean S.
10/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
The ordering was super easy. The sales rep explained every detail and option available and had examples of the windows and materials used. It took about 6 weeks to have it built and then came install day. The crew that installed the window was good at what they did. They arrived at 10 am on a saturday morning and had the new window installed by 3. They were very friendly and cleaned as they went.
Description of Work: Being first time home buyers my wife and I purchased a fixer upper. We were able to fix a lot of the issues the house had except for one. We had a 10'x5' bow window that was sagging and had a few cracked windows. We went to the local big box stores and got prices from Pella, anderson, and atrium. We weren't real impressed with the prices in the least so we decided to stop looking for a while. Then one day at a home and garden show we saw Universal Windows at a both and decided to give them a shot. We figured that they would be along the same price/ quality as the others we had quoted. We were pleasantly surprised to see a quote that was a few thousand dollars cheaper and what we considered to be a lot better quality. We decided to go ahead and opted for a triple pan window with oak interior. I can't describe how much better our home looks and feels.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$5,000
Response from Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland
(member name removed), We are glad you chose us to make your home more comfortable, appealing and energy efficient. Please keep in mind when it comes time to do remainder of your windows and entry door.
Brian B.
10/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
From the beginning to the end it was a great experience! From the moment we called Joe he was informative and professional and very knowledgable about the windows that we wanted. The installers were courteous and professional as well. Once the windows were installed you couldn't even tell that we had had anyone in the house working, they cleaned up very well. Overall we feel that we received a great product for a great price and will definitely use them for future projects and would recomend them to anyone.
Description of Work: Installed new vinyl replacement windows
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$7,000
Sean N.
10/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
The sales process as explained above was smooth and fluent and the installers were great as well. When in came to installation they had all 11 windows on a two story home replaced in about 4-6 hours with little to no interference to my regular day. The installers worked efficiently, quietly, and most importantly cleaned up after themselves. They put drop clothes down everywhere they went inside and cleaned every scrap and piece of debris outside as well before calling the job done.
Description of Work: After having several vendors out to get estimates for whole home windows and considering options of purchasing my own through Home Depot I finally settled on Universal Windows of Akron. I should have started with them initially, Joe was prompt and courteous in the sales process, very educational and I felt comfortable buying from him. In the end I had 11 Windows replaced throughout the whole house and couldn't be happier.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$5,500
Dave S.
10/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
These guys did a great job. Joe, the owner/salesman was on-time, gave us a written estimate and dealt with the dozens of questions we had very professionally. It rained the night before the windows were installed, but the crew did a great job of keeping the house clean...and the windows look (and work) great! We have more windows we need installed, and will call this team back.
Description of Work: Had company replace several rotting wood windows on first floor
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$6,000
Barry B.
10/2013
5.0
siding, replacement windows
+ 0 more
Joe from universal windows Akron came to my home and put on a very professional presentation. Made me feel very comfortable. The work that I needed done was handled in a very professional and timely manner. They did exactly the way joe had presented it. I was extremely satisfied with all aspects of job.
Description of Work: Replaced 8 windows and siding
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$12,400
Babatunde F.
10/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
They were prompt and courteous. And the job was cleanly and professionally done....
Description of Work: Install windows
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$25,000
julie S.
10/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
The install work was A1. All people where very professional and courteous. Could not have gone better. Would use them again.
Description of Work: install 8 windows
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$4,100
Julie C.
10/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
The Sales Rep., Joe, was very informative, took time to answer all my questions, and made me very comfortable with the product and with the installation process. He was very professional, courteous, and on time, as was the gentlemen who came to measure. The windows arrived even earlier than promised, the installation was set up around my schedule, and the installers were also very professional and courteous. In addition, they kept the work areas immaculate. The windows far exceeded my expectations! I expected them to be beautiful, which they are, and to totally cut down on noise and drafts, which they do, but honestly, they have totally changed the looks of my house, both inside and out, they are even easier to work with (opening and closing and tilting in and out to clean) than I thought windows could be, and I can't imagine how I could be any happier!
Description of Work: 23 new windows
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
4.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$14,000
Scott R.
10/2013
5.0
replacement windows
+ -1 more
Windows look great --- big improvment to the look of the house and nicely installed. We ran into issues with the main window when the company pulled the old windows the supporting wood was rotted ... They discussed what need to be done and cost to rebuild the supporting wood frame,drywall tear out and replacement and the increased cost. So this extended a one day project to two days. Guys were great as they put in a long day the first day to handle the rotten wood issue. Again, end result looks great and is a big improment. Trim was nicely done. Would recommend this company for this type of project. We plan to do additional windows (back of house) in 2014.
Description of Work: Converted casement windows to double hung --- 9 casements converted to 6 doubles. All windows across from of the house. These were complete tear outs.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$6,800
Pamela L.
10/2013
5.0
gutter repair, siding, replacement windows
+ 1 more
The work on the windows and the siding was very good. The people that did that work were very nice, professional and cleaned up very well after themselves. We have 2 problems that have yet to be solved, 3 of the screens were damaged at the time of installation - they need to be replaced. We have made several phone calls and had someone out to the house a few times to measure and see which windows they were. We have yet to get those windows back. The gutters on all four corners of the house are up high enough that birds are making nests in them. They are aware of this, but have yet to have someone out to look at that. When the gutter topper was installed, some of the shingles were buckled, someone came out to fix whatever was creating the wrinkle. He said that the wrinkle would correct itself over time - I'm not sure that it will. I really want my screens for my 3 windows fixed and would like something more professional done with the gutters, to prevent the birds from making nests. **Update: There was a problem with the installation of the gutter covers at the back of the house. They sent some workers out to get this problem fixed and I'm happy as can be with it. We are very satisfied.
Description of Work: They did a lot of work for us. We had new windows installed, new siding on the house, new gutters and downspouts, and new gutter protectors.
All statements concerning insurance, licenses, and bonds are informational only, and are self-reported. Since insurance, licenses and bonds can expire and can be cancelled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. To find more licensing information for your state, visit our State Contractor License Requirements page.
*Contact business to see additional licenses.
Service Categories
Windows,
Doors,
Siding,
Gutters,
Roofing,
Insulation
FAQ
Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland is currently rated 4.7 overall out of 5.
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland accepts the following forms of payment: Check,CreditCard,Financing Available
Yes, Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland offers free project estimates.
Yes, Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland offers eco-friendly accreditations.
No, Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland does not offer a senior discount.
No, Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland does not offer emergency services.
Yes, Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland offers warranties.
Universal Windows Direct of Cleveland offers the following services: Vinyl replacement windows, bay and bow windows, casement windows, picture windows, fiberglass doors, front doors, patio doors, sliding glass doors, vinyl siding, vinyl shakes & scallops, roofing, gutters & gutter protection.