With hundreds of replacement windows to choose from, how does a discerning consumer make the best selection? Here are five common mistakes to avoid.

1. Cheap things are usually not good; good things are usually not cheap.
   This is especially true with windows.
   Yet many make the mistake of beginning their window search by looking for the cheapest window available.
   Remember: A high-quality window will last a whole lot longer than a cheap, low-quality window.
   Plus it will be much more energy-efficient too.
   The little extra you invest in a high-quality window will oftentimes pay you back many times over in dramatically reduced utility bills and by only replacing windows once instead of two or three times.
   
2. Others go to the opposite extreme.
   Don't automatically assume that if a window costs a lot, it must be among the best, even if it is a well-known brand.
   This may or may not be the case.
   
3. Not knowing the exact energy efficiency of a window before you buy can cost you plenty.
   There is no need to guess.
   The National Fenestration Ratings Council (N.
   F.
   R.
   C.
   ) publishes the exact energy-efficiency of almost every window on their website, listed by manufacturer.
   Look under the U-factor column.
   The lower the U-factor, the higher the energy-efficiency.
   Several factors contribute to the energy-efficiency of a window.
   Everything else being equal, triple pane windows are more energy-efficient than dual pane.
   Also, Krypton-Filled Windows are more energy-efficient than Argon-Filled Windows.
   And Soft-Coating is better than Hard-Coating.
   
4. The fourth biggest mistake is not reading or understanding the fine print of a warranty.
   Many windows carry a so-called lifetime warranty.
   But usually, the word lifetime refers to the lifetime of the window, not the lifetime of the homeowner.
   
5. Last, but not least, the fifth biggest mistake is not taking into consideration the quality of the window's locks.
   Most windows have flimsy locks, making it a piece of cake for a skilled burglar to break in.
   Protect your valuables and loved ones with a high quality window locking system.
   

In summary, determine the exact energy-efficiency of a window before you buy.
Check the N.
F.
R.
C.
website.
Remember: The lower the U-factor, the higher the energy-efficiency.
Next, consider the fine print of the warranty.
Replacing windows 2 or 3 times instead of once is expensive.
And don't be fooled by those so-called "lifetime" warranties.
Lastly, don't forget about safety.
Invest in a window with a high-quality locking system.
Investing in a window that is highly energy-efficient and built to last will pay for itself many times over.
And nobody can put a price tag on the safety and security of your loved ones.
Taking these steps will narrow your search tremendously.
Then, and only then, should price be a consideration.