Frequently Asked Questions
Replacement Windows
How do I know when my windows need replacement?
Common signs are drafts you can feel, sashes that stick or won’t stay up, fogging between the panes, soft or rotted wood, failed seals, and rooms that are hard to keep comfortable. One bad window can sometimes be repaired, but when several have the same problems, replacement is usually the better investment. We look at each opening and tell you which ones need attention now.
Why do you recommend ProVia Endure?
Endure is ProVia’s highly customizable vinyl window. It’s made with ProVia’s SunShield vinyl, offers multiple glass packages including triple-pane, and comes in many styles, colors, and hardware options. It carries ProVia’s transferable lifetime limited warranty, with terms that differ by component. For many homes it hits the right balance of performance, appearance, and value. ProVia’s Aspect line is a separate, simpler option when budget matters most.
How do vinyl, fiberglass, and wood-interior windows compare?
Vinyl, like ProVia Endure, offers good efficiency and low upkeep at a reasonable price. Fiberglass, like Marvin Essential and Elevate, uses Marvin’s Ultrex material, which is very stable and allows narrower frames; Elevate adds a wood interior you can stain or paint. Wood interiors give warmth but need more care inside. We help you weigh appearance, budget, and how you use each room.
What is the difference between insert and full-frame replacement?
An insert window fits inside your existing frame, which saves interior and exterior trim and usually costs less. A full-frame replacement removes the old frame down to the rough opening, allowing us to fix rot, flash and insulate the opening, and sometimes gain glass area. The condition of your existing frames decides which is appropriate, and we check every opening before recommending one.
Is triple-pane glass worth the additional cost?
Sometimes. Triple-pane can improve comfort near large windows, reduce cold glass surfaces in winter, and help with outside noise. In our climate, a good double-pane Low-E unit with gas fill already performs well, so the value depends on the room, the window size, and your priorities. ENERGY STAR eligibility depends on the specific configuration and climate zone, and we can show you the NFRC ratings for each option.
Can I replace my windows in phases?
Yes. Many homeowners start with the windows in the worst condition or the most-used rooms, then finish the rest later. We’ll help you plan so styles, colors, and grid patterns stay consistent across phases. Product lines and colors can change over time, so ask us about timing if you want later windows to match exactly.
Will new windows help with drafts, outside noise, and condensation?
New, properly installed windows usually reduce drafts and can reduce outside noise, especially with laminated or triple-pane glass, but no window is soundproof. Fog between the panes means a failed seal and is solved by new glass. Condensation on the inside surface usually comes from high indoor humidity; better windows reduce it, but managing humidity matters too. We don’t promise a specific energy-bill reduction.
What installation work, trim, and warranty coverage are included?
Your proposal spells out the installation method, removal and disposal of old windows, insulation and sealing around each unit, interior and exterior trim, and any capping. ProVia and Marvin warranties cover their products with different terms for frames, glass, and hardware. Riley’s workmanship warranty covers the installation and is listed separately.
Entry & Patio Doors
Should I choose a steel or fiberglass entry door?
Both are good choices. ProVia Legacy steel doors use 20-gauge steel and are a strong choice for security and a clean painted look, and they can be finished differently inside and out. Fiberglass resists dents and can carry a convincing woodgrain stain. We’ll show you samples of both and talk through exposure, style, and budget.
Do you replace the entire door system or just the slab?
Usually the entire system. A door works as a unit: slab, frame, threshold, weatherstripping, glass, and hardware. Replacing only the slab in a worn frame rarely seals well. A pre-hung system, like ProVia’s, lets us set a square, weathertight unit and flash the opening properly. If your frame is sound and you only want a new slab, we’ll tell you honestly whether that will work.
Can I customize glass, sidelights, colors, and hardware?
Yes. You can choose decorative or privacy glass, sidelights and transoms, paint or stain colors, and hardware styles and finishes. ProVia also allows different styles or finishes on each side of the door. We’ll bring samples and help you narrow choices that fit your home’s style and your budget.
What happens if the frame, sill, or surrounding wood is damaged?
We repair it before the new door goes in. Rotted sills, subfloor, or jambs are common under older doors, especially where water has been getting in. We’ll show you what we find and explain the repair, and your proposal explains how hidden damage is priced so you approve any extra work first.
Can you replace a patio door or change the opening?
Yes, we replace sliding and hinged patio doors. Enlarging an opening, relocating it, or converting a window to a door is a separate scope that can involve structural headers, siding, interior finishes, and permits. We evaluate those projects on site, explain what’s involved, and price them separately so you can decide whether the change is worth it.
What warranties apply to the door, glass, finish, hardware, and installation?
Each part may have different coverage. For example, ProVia’s lifetime limited warranty covers the door system, while Legacy steel door factory finishes carry a 10-year warranty, and glass and hardware have their own terms. Riley’s workmanship warranty covers installation. Your proposal lists each one, so there’s no single blanket “lifetime” promise. We also keep the process simple: a focused visit, clear options, and a written proposal with no coupons or same-day price drops.

