We bought a home built in the late 50s and one thing we clearly noticed as soon as we moved in was that there was a draft coming through in different parts of our home. They all stemmed from our 64 year old windows and doors.

Our biggest issue came from our picture window in the living room. No matter how much we ran up our gas heater, the room felt like we were standing on top of an iceberg in Antarctica with a t-shirt, shorts and some flip-flops (might be an exaggeration, but it was freezing). Because of all the expenses that we've incurred being a new homeowner, we decided that we would replace the largest window in our home first which seemed to be the biggest problem in the home too.

In order to get a good idea on the prices of windows, I went over to Home Depot. I walked the Windows aisle and saw that the prices ranged by size and style. We have a large 94 X 60, so I did not see anything on the floor that matched that size. Plus, we have 2 side windows around the picture window that are 10 X 60 each and those were non-existent on the floor as well. After getting a rough idea on the prices, I went home to do a little more research on their site.

As I was trying to look up the sizes online, I came across a banner that said, "Let Home Depot Professionally Install Your Windows." I clicked on the banner and it took me to a page where it said," Get Started With A Free In-Home Consultation." For a newbie like myself, this was what I needed in order to move on with my research, plus it's free and no strings attached. I filled out an easy online form, chose the date and time that would best work for me and then got a confirmation email.

The day before they came out, I received another call to make sure that the time and date still worked for me. The day of, our windows professional Steve came out to our home like what you'd see in a Home Depot commercial. He was in his nice business casuals with a bright orange Home Depot apron and a huge smile on his face. Seriously, I felt like I was in the Home Depot commercial!

We showed him the windows we were needing to replace and he measured them and sat down with us to discuss our options. There were a few options, but he pointed towards a vinyl window which was the least expensive, but was just as good as the other windows (saved us about $400). He went and figured out the pricing which included the windows, the installation, building permit, lead safe installation and warranty. The total for 3 windows came out to be $1759 including his $200 discount. After seeing the prices range from $197 to $400 at Home Depot, my eyes did get a little bit big, but after talking to him, it made sense. So here is why I went with Home Depot installation:

Warranty

They stand by their work. If the installation goes wrong, something tears, chips or a kid literally throws a ball through your window and breaks it, they will come out and fix it. When you need to call them, the number is going to stay the same and they can't hide from you. About 6 months ago they added the accidental coverage warranty which is a bonus for us since we have kids.

Price

They were about $300 more than the local company. But remember, they do everything up to the federal government standards when it comes down to lead safety (which is very important not only for my health but my kids' health) and they also pull a building permit. I like to keep records on things that are done to my home and when you go to sell it, it shows the work that was done. Helps with resell value if the buyer is as thorough as I am.

Quality

Steve showed us the samples and showed us the pictures.  We knew which brand we were getting and what it would look like in the end.

Payment Plan

A special was running at the time we signed our contract, so we got no interest for 24 months. So that's about $73.29 a month for our new windows.  That's not subtracting our $80 rebate from the electric company.

While Home Depot does contract their installation work to outside vendors, the great thing is if they mess up, Home Depot takes full responsibility. You can call the store and tell them your issues and everything will be taken care of. So ultimately while I did pay a little bit more, I went with a big-box store like Home Depot to have my peace of mind. 

Like I said, I am a new homeowner and if that window starts breaking down, at least I know who to call without having to fork over a dime. When I go to sell the home, I can transfer the warranty minus the craftsmanship and accidental warranty (higher resell value). Furthermore, having the option to pay over 24 months interest-free lifts the burden off our shoulders. We are very happy about our decision!

Come back tomorrow when Meghan talks about her experience getting window treatments for her new home.

Every day during our 5 part series, answer the question of the day by commenting on the post to be eligible to win a $100 Home Depot gift card. You must comment on all 5 posts by 11:59pm PST on 03/10/2013 to be eligible (please see contest rules). Plus, take advantage of this rare Home Depot coupon to get $5 off your purchase over $50. Today's question is: If you're thinking about installing new windows or if you've already done so, let us know what factors you considered before making your final decision.

(Source: Savings.com)