
Windows on Washington
About us
Simply put - we believe that improving your home should be enjoyable. That is why we spent years designing our consultations, installations, and customer care experiences to minimize stress and provide every client with a fair and honest home improvement experience. Founded in 2005, Windows on Washington has become one of the area’s most respected home improvement companies because we make our clients' homes more beautiful, comfortable, and energy efficient. We are proud Angie’s Super Service Award winners, which we’ve now earned for seven consecutive years. We have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and have never had one filed complaint. In addition, we have hundreds of positive customer reviews on Angie’s List, Customer Lobby, Home Advisor, Guild Quality, Houzz, and Yelp.
Business highlights
Services we offer
Replacement windows, metal & asphalt roofing, exterior doors, sliding doors, fiber cement & vinyl siding, gutters, air sealing & insulation.
Amenities
Free Estimates
Yes
Warranties
Yes
Accepted Payment Methods
- CreditCard
Number of Stars | Image of Distribution | Number of Ratings |
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90% | ||
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Filter reviews by service
The original windows installed in my house were wood windows , and although initially attractive, they began to develop areas of rot due to water damage over 20+ years despite painting periodically. Wood windows are high maintenance and re-painting is even more time consuming over the years because of need to strip off old layers of paint. Many of my neighbors with these same problems, replaced their wood windows with vinyl insert replacement windows choosing to cover the wood brickmold trim and sills that were most susceptible to rotting, with featureless aluminum flashing. Being an experienced DIYer, I fashioned and replaced many wood window sills and some of the brickmold window trim with PVC trim boards, but while this is durable solution it is more labor intensive and would still require replacement of the wood sashes. So , reluctantly, I decided to look at complete window tear out and replacement, searching for an attractive, energy efficient, and above all low maintenance product.
Product Selection:
After evaluating window products on Internet and a few home shows, I considered three options; aluminum clad windows, vinyl, and fiberglass windows. I decided against aluminum clad windows because a web site warned against any breaks in the cladding would allow moisture to enter and persist in the underlying wood, and I had seen wood rot develop in the lower panel of an aluminum clad patio door of a good friend. Fiberglass looked very good in terms of strength and durability, but was very pricey and there were relatively few distributors. Vinyl was not as strong but probably durable in that nature doesn?t degrade this material and it is impervious to water. But I was not pleased with the relative thinness, strength, or appearance of some of these products. The best unbiased evaluation of window products , I came across, was the Windows on Washington website. This independent window company based in Chantilly , Va, appeared to have installed many different brands of windows and provided an unbiased appraisal of window options available with emphasis on performance and energy efficiency. Although, I live in Maryland, and had not intended to use a Virginia company, I called the company on a Saturday with intention of visiting their showroom. The wife of the owner answered the phone, and informed their showroom was closed because they would be managing a booth at a local home show. So instead, I went to the home show that day, where I met Mr Frank Novotny, the original founder of the firm and father of the current manager. He showed a few attractive high quality window products,, and explained the features without any pressure. I was impressed with his openees , honesty about products, and willingness to spend time with me. The next week , I decided to consider using their company, and gave them a call. Eric Novotny , the head of the firm, arranged to have Mr Joe Bailey, come out to see my project and give an assessment. Joe understood, I was concerned with appearance, energy performance, and low maintenance, and immediately, suggested the Interstate Windows composite windows product as the best choice. This was similar to a product that I had heard was used out West but I didn?t know was available- nor seen used - in the Mid Atlantic region. The product had a higher energy rating than standard vinyl products and also provided composite vinyl brickmold trim that allowed preservation of the look of wood without the heavy maintenance. Joe?s very first suggestion was exactly what I was looking for.
Measurement:
Complete tearout requires careful measurement and is more difficult than window inserts since the rough openings are hidden by interior and exterior trimwork. there is nothing worse for homeowner and window company than to tear out a window only to find thereplacement is too small or worse yet, too large. For the double hung windows , I was willing remove the interior trim , but I also was replacing a large Palladium type window combination high up in the foyer. Ken , from WOW came out a couple of times , and we finally came to set a measurements that seemed appropriate, and the order was placed. When the windows were manufactured and delivered WoW allowed me to pick up the round top unit of the Palladium 3 weeks in advance, so I could take measurements to allow me to make my own pop-in grillework, while the window was still "on the ground".
Installation:
The windows were scheduled for installation in mid -February , last winter-one of our coldest and heavy snow fall winters! Joe Choi and his crew came promptly and went right to work. The double hung windows could not have been sized better, and went in without a hitch. New interior trim replaced the old. despite a light snowfall, the composite palladium window was installed well- the bottom rectangular unit required shimming which Joe did well using a piece of maintenance free PVC.
Followup.
It has been 10 months, and the windows look great, operate smoothly, and are energy efficient. A great product, well installed is all one could ask for. I intend to use WoW for replacement of other units. They were a pleasure to work with.
"We really appreciate you taking the time to provide such a detailed account of your WoW experience. It was a pleasure to earn your home improvement business and to complete your window project. We are thrilled that you are enjoying the new windows and are reaping the benefits of their increased energy efficiency."
The installation crew was fantastic--clean, respectful, communicated well and FAST. The job was completed in 6 hours with minimal intrusion.
I recommend that anyone looking for window replacement check out the home improvement blogs--Eric from WoW comments often and with authority. His even-handed, informational approach (never touting his own product), coupled with the depth of knowledge, was very persuasive.
"Thanks for your kind review. It was a pleasure to complete your project and we very much appreciate your business. Eric spends hours each week online answering homeowners questions from all over the country. It's part of his dedication to providing education and unbiased professional expertise to homeowners that are researching windows and doors, roofing, siding and more. We appreciate your mention of it as that proves that he's making a difference!"
The sales rep arrived on time and was very knowledgeable. He recommended HiMark (Okna) series 800 windows. The offer was about what I had budgeted and did not have to be accepted that day or have an increase in the price like some other companies.
After I accepted the offer, a tech came to measure the windows. He was very courteous and quick. I was told it would take 4 to 6 weeks for delivery. In about four weeks, I received a call saying the windows had arrived and been inspected. We agreed on a date for installation. A crew of three arrived as agreed upon. They immediately started to work by covering the inside of the house with drop cloths. The installation crew was very efficient, professional and courteous.
I have found no problems with the widows or the installation.
"Thank you so very much for taking the time to provide a review of our products and services. We appreciate your business and the opportunity to work on your home. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any home improvement needs in the future."
Pella and Anderson people gave estimates that were not only twice as high but included the proviso that we'd need to get contractors to repair plaster and paint etc.
Eric came from WoW for a consult and talked with us at length. Twice. Very knowledgeable and NOT selling something.
I thought I was buying really good windows. But what I was really buying was really GREAT windows and most importantly, installation from a fantastic team. For both the air sealing/insulation and the window replacement, the crews were on time, polite, professional.
WoW did our replacement windows in two days. 33 windows. Our old windows were a challenge to remove.There was a bit of mess. The crews cleaned up in fine fashion. Interior finish and caulking were perfect. Outside finish exceeded our hopes. I know many contractors in my area. I'd call Windows on Washington first.
"We really appreciate your review of our consultation process, products and installation practices. I know my Team works hard to reach 100% client satisfaction and I know they will be pleased when I share your positive feedback with them. We truly enjoyed working with you and completing this project for you. Thanks again for trusting us with your home and please let me know how we can be of service in the future. Regards, Eric Novotny President"
The initial visit was informational and low-pressure - very appreciated after having one estimate that was like having a used car salesman in our house. Once we decided to use them, they made another visit to do precise measurements for ordering. Once the windows came in, they called me and we scheduled the installation. I left for the day while they worked. When I came back, the lead installer gave me precautions about the caulking still being wet and also demonstrated all the features of the window for me.
There was no dust and they did a great job cleaning up. We have a baby, so lead containment/remediation was particularly important to us! The windows upstairs tested positive, and they took great precaution in ensuring that dust did not enter the house.
I hate to downgrade for responsiveness/communication, but it has to be done. First, I had to make two phone calls to get someone to come out to do an estimate. Secondly, I had a question which I emailed, and the person who responded tried to answer but did not have my project information in front of them, so she wasn't really able to answer the question. She should have waited until she had my information in front of her. And finally, during the project, the lead installer told me a time that they would likely be done - that time came and went without a call, so I called the office and asked for his number. I'm terrible with names and couldn't remember the person who was there. The person who answered the phone should have looked up who was working on my house, but did not, and connected me with the wrong person. Ultimately, all of these were minor, but this is why I did not give them an A for responsiveness.
The windows are wonderful! We are so happy to have windows that open and close easily. We are looking forward to the reduced energy costs this winter and not being frozen out of our basement. The previous owner had replaced some, but not all of the windows, and it is readily apparent that these windows are of much nicer quality than the ones that the previous owner replaced. While windows are not the sexiest home improvement, I am SO glad that we did our windows and chose WoW for this project.
"Thank you for taking the time to complete such a thorough review. We very much appreciate your feedback. We strive for 100% customer satisfaction at all times, and always welcome opportunities to improve our service. We are thrilled that you are enjoying the new windows! It was our pleasure to complete this project for you. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you need any additional service in the future. Best Regards, The WoW Team"
"The WoW Team very much appreciates your review on our products, installation and service. It was our pleasure to complete your door project! We pride ourselves on choosing only best-in-class products and maintaining the highest possible installation standards. We look forward to serving your home improvement needs when the time comes for replacement windows, siding, roofing or insulation for your home."
"Thank you for submitting your review on our roofing products and services. The WoW Team very much appreciates it! We work hard to create and maintain a trusting relationship with our clients, and we were thrilled when you chose WoW to install your new roof. As always, should you require service in the future, please do not hesitate to call on us. We stand behind our products and services 100%. Also, when you're ready to tackle a door, siding or insulation project, please let us know!"
"Thank you for the kind review of our service! It was our pleasure to complete your replacement window project and we look forward to serving your future home improvement needs."
The work was done ok, but I had to insist that part of the project be done over. They wanted to leave it for me to finish.
They finally fixed the problems (paint and bad plaster job).
"[removed member name], Thank you for your kind words in reviewing Windows on Washington. It was our pleasure to complete your project. We truly hope you enjoy the windows! Please let us know if and when we can be of any additional service."
Since 2009, Windows on Washington has done several projects for me, replacing all my windows, my front door, and air sealing my basement. Every project was done to my satisfaction. They are always responsive to my questions (and I had many), especially Eric, who is very knowledgeable about aspects of the products they use and the work they do. They are honest, fair, and trustworthy. Their after-service support, should you need it, is unparalleled. I wholeheartedly recommend Windows on Washington as the contractor of choice for all they do.
"Thank you so much taking the time to share your WoW experience and for the very kind review. You have been a pleasure to work with and we are very much appreciate your trust in Eric and the WoW Team. We look forward to working together in the future, should you have additional home improvement needs."
"Thank you for your review on Windows on Washington. We wanted to let you know we appreciate you trusting us with your home and taking the time to reflect on your experience. Our employees are the reason for our success and we will pass along your compliments the crew. Please let us know if we can be of any additional service."
"Thank you for your review on Windows on Washington. We wanted to let you know we appreciate you trusting us with your home and taking the time to reflect on your experience. We will pass along your compliments to Okna on their sliding glass door - they will be thrilled that you love it! Please let us know if we can be of any additional service and for your future home improvement needs."
"Thanks so much for your kind review, [member name removed] and congratulations on the new house! The WoW Team very much appreciates your business. It was a pleasure to complete your roofing and window projects and we look forward to providing you with service for your upcoming home improvement needs."
"Thank you for your review on Windows on Washington. We wanted to let you know we appreciate you trusting us with your home and taking the time to reflect on your experience. Our employees are the reason for our success and we will pass along your compliments Eric and Young. Please let us know if there is anything you need. We look forward to serving all of your home improvement needs in the future. The WoW Team"
"Thank you for your endorsement of Windows on Washington. We are pleased to hear how happy you are with your new windows. Sometimes things don't always go perfectly with an installation but we always stand behind our work and we were more than happy to come out and fix the problem. We would like to thank you for your patience and understanding, it was a pleasure doing business with you."
"Thank you for your review on Windows on Washington. We wanted to let you know we appreciate you trusting us with your home and taking the time to reflect on your experience. We know that our employees are the reason for our success and thank you for sharing the experience you had with them here on Angie's List. Please let us know if there is anything you need. We look forward to serving all of your home improvement needs in the future. The WoW Team"
Original Review:
I called WoW for two reasons. First were the reviews on Angies List. Second because they are one of the few in our area that carry the Okna windows line. The other Okna dealer in our area is not a company we want to deal with (and weren't not the only ones based on other AL reviews). The salesman, Brandon, was great and could talk the numbers. He knows the product specs well and I appreciate that. The quote process was low pressure and no BS. We purchased windows in our old home and it was a terrible experience getting quotes.
We went with Okna 800 series windows. It took 2 mos or so for them to arrive and we got an install appointment about a week or so later. The crew showed up on time, protected our floors, moved quick, did great work. Everyone was polite and efficient. Each windows was cleaned inside and out which we appreciated.
It was a chunk of change to drop on vinyl windows, but the house is noticeable tighter and quieter. The first night after the install we had stiff winds outside. Before the replacements we could feel the drafts and cold air flow through the house. With the new windows there isn't so much as a hint of air infiltration. Great windows, great install.
FOLLOW-UP:
Within 1 week of the install the casing WoW installed in our shower peeled due to moisture. The back band was not properly sealed, water infiltrated, and the wood/paper backing expanded causing separation. I contacted WoW to have them come out and fix this issue. This is probably a 30 min job tops. I was told they would get back to me once they could determine when their guy would be "back in the area". They contacted me a few days later and scheduled an appointment for Fri 3/21.
I took off work that day and thankfully scheduled other contractors to make the best of my day off. The other contractors arrived on time, but about an hour before the WoW appointment their office called to cancel. They wanted to reschedule for another weekday but I explained that i'm not taking off any more work. A few days later they rescheduled for a time when they would be "back in the area again" - Sat 4/5 around 10am - 12pm.
That appointment came and went and I got a call that afternoon at 4pm or so asking to reschedule again. At this point i'm going to fix it myself. I'm fortunate that I have the tools and skills to do this.
Needless to say, i'm unimpressed with the after sales service. I paid for their top of the line windows and install and i'm upset. IMO it's how a company handles warranty issues - the stuff that comes right off the bottom line - that reveals how committed a company is to customer service.
Update 2: WoW came out on the third appointment to fix the issue. The craftsman who came out arrived on time, took his time and did it right.
"Thank you so much for the kind words about our company. It was our pleasure to help you with your window project. We pride ourselves on being up front and honest with our customers. Great news about your reduced air infiltration on the first night of your completed project! I will pass on your kind remarks about our staff, especially Brandon, to them. Please let us know if there is anything you need and it was a pleasure doing business with you. The WoW Team"
"Thank you for trusting us with your home improvement project. We are humbled by your selection of our company to be chosen to complete your window project. Your satisfaction is our number one priority and we were happy that we found additional savings for you after your project contract was signed. Honesty is at the core of our business and if we can save on installaiton costs we are happy to pass that savings on to you. Thank you again for your business and kind words. The WoW Team"
"We are pleased to hear how happy you are with the result of your shutter project. Thank you for taking the time to review our company, we understand how important it is to get the job done correctly. It was a pleasure doing business with you, please let us know if you need anything. The WoW Team"
"We appreciate the kind words you have shared about Windows on Washington. We wanted to thank you for your patience in the delay with the manufacturing your doors and with the delay of your installation due to weather. It is great to hear just how pleased you are with the carpentry work and new doors. We are glad that we could help you and we hope to assist you with and future projects that may have. Thank you for your business, The WoW Team"
We met with Brandon on the initial consult. He gave a knowledgeable and comprehensive presentation on their products. We weren't familiar with the product line (Okna), but after we did our research, we found that they produce a quality window. Brandon did not waste time bashing competitors (this was not our experience with other replacement window contractors).
The installation was painless. The crew was efficient and clean. They finished the job in a day, and did such a good job cleaning up, you couldn't tell a major renovation had just been completed. There were no issues with window fit, because of the careful measurements that had been previously taken.
We did have a small punch list that was promptly taken care. One sash had a tiny scratch in the glass, but WoW replaced it without issue.
Our only minor complaint was that with how Okna packages the windows, we had several windows with scuff marks on the top horizontal surface of the lower sash. Since they weren't very noticeable and it didn't seem significant enough to replace the entire sash, we went with WoW's suggestion of using goof-off to remove the scuffs. This worked in removing the scuff, but left a haze instead.
During this past summer, our electric bills have been ~20% lower. So far this winter, the house has been noticeably more comfortable.
"Thank you for taking the time to review Windows on Washington. We are pleased to hear how happy you are with your new windows and the energy savings you have already received. It give us great pleasure when our customers go out of their way to talk about our WoW staff, as they are our greatest asset and we will pass your comments on to Brandon and your installation crew. We have passed on your comments about the packaging method of your windows on to Okna and we appreciate your feedback in this area. It was a pleasure doing business with you. The WoW Team"
"We are pleased to hear how happy you are with the result of your project. Thank you for taking the time to review our company, we understand how important it is to get the job done correctly. It was a pleasure doing business with you, please let us know if you need anything. The WoW Team"
"Thank you for your review on Windows on Washington. We appreciate you trusting us with your home and taking the time to reflect on your experience. We look forward to serving all of your home improvement needs in the future. We appreciate your business, The WoW Team"
The sales people are professional and helpful.
The installation crew is conscientious.
They are not the cheapest, but they are the best value for money.
"Thank you for your review and endorsement of Windows on Washington. We are pleased to hear how happy you are with your new windows. Windows on Washington is extremely proud of our employees and the way they make sure our customers are taken care from the initial call until the project is completed. Thank you for entrusting your home with us and it was a pleasure doing business with you. The WoW Team"
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