Introduction

by Sal Alfano - Editorial Director of Remodeling, Replacement Contractor and Upscale Remodeling Magazine

If you’re like most people, your home is your largest investment. In addition to what you paid when you purchased it, you’ve invested time and money in upkeep and maintenance to protect that investment.

The fact that most Americans take great pride in how well they maintain their home is the main reason that home improvement expenditures in the United States now stand in excess of $300 billion annually. As the editorial director of several magazines aimed at professional remodeling and home improvement contractors, I have the inside track on first-hand information about many of the products and services that homeowners purchase to keep their homes up to date while also reducing the cost of maintenance.

One of my publications, Remodeling Magazine, produces an annual survey entitled “The Cost vs. Value Report” which compares the construction cost of many popular home improvement projects to the amount which they contribute to resale value. The portion of the report dedicated to replacement windows is included in this book.

Dave Yoho, the author of this book, is a recognized expert within the home improvement industry. In addition to his many accomplishments, he at one time owned and operated what was the largest home improvement company in the United States. The companies who originally developed and promoted the replacement window sought from Dave and his company the advice and direction which enabled the replacement window to become an industry in and of itself.

Since that time, replacement window projects have become a high priority for most American homeowners. In 2007, more than 33 million replacement windows were

 

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manufactured for use in residential housing. This figure represents 50% more windows than were manufactured for new construction in residential housing.

This book represents knowledgeable research applied in a way that enables homeowners to read and understand why replacement windows are a key ingredient for energy management and ecological balance. I think you will find that Dave Yoho’s personal experience and expertise enables him to deliver information that is invaluable to all homeowners. The information found in chapters 5 (“Who Should Install the Replacement Window?”) and 6 (“How to Select a Replacement Window Contractor”), are particularly helpful.

While I may be a representative of the home improvement industry, I am also a homeowner. Do yourself a favor and read this book more than once. Learn as much as you can about replacement windows. The resulting value will startle you.