Our Company
Why should I use Comfort Guard?
We have been serving Michigan’s window needs for over 20 years. In those 20+ years, we have earned a reputation for honesty, quality, and trust among our customers. A large majority of those customers are referrals from past customers. Our small size and family feel give us a one-on-one advantage with our customers that you simply will not find with our competition. From the first phone call to the completion of your job, you will work closely with members of our family and not just some sales guy and sub-contracted install crew. When you choose Comfort Guard you aren’t just another number, you are a friend of the family!
What separates Comfort Guard from everyone else?
You will quickly see for yourself what separates us from the rest. Although the list is a long one, if we had to pick one thing, it would be that you will deal with an expert from start to finish. We don’t send a “sales guy” to your house. You will deal with a member of our family that not only knows the products inside and out but knows the installation too. In fact, they will be there installing your windows! With no made-up sales gimmicks, fake sales, threats of prices going up after we leave, or high-pressure sales tactics, you can make an educated decision and feel comfortable working with us and our family.
What areas do you service?
We are based in Burton, Mi and service a large radius including:
Flint, Grand Blanc, Fenton, Davison, Montrose, Flushing, Swartz Creek, Lansing, East Lansing, Dewitt, Bath, Owosso, Clarkston, Oakland, Waterford, Holly, Ortonville, Goodrich, Brighton, Howell, Hartland, Milford, Macomb, Highland, Lapeer, Metamora, Deerfield Twp., Hadley, Saginaw, Midland, Bay City, Bridgeport, Birch Run, Frankenmuth, Vassar, Wayne County, and surrounding areas.
Is Comfort Guard licensed and insured?
Yes, we are fully licensed and insured. This is very important to know when shopping around for a replacement window and door company! When it comes to your home you can never be too safe. We are a licensed builder and insured well over what is required.
Why don’t I see ads for Comfort Guard on TV or hear about them on the radio?
Simply put, radio and TV ads cost a lot of money! That expense would have to be built into the cost of your windows and doors. We would rather pass the savings on to you and let you advertise for us. Most of our business comes from referrals and word of mouth. We feel if you do a great job and offer great value, you don’t need to spend a bunch of money advertising.
Do you have deals, discounts, or coupons available?
We all know how “special discounts” work. If someone is offering half off or free anything, they are making up the difference somewhere else. Let’s face it, no one gives away money or works for free. A two-for-one deal on an inflated or over-priced window really isn’t a deal at all.
We do not work that way! We look at your project, determine labor costs, price the windows, add a very modest markup, and give you the estimate. No crazy math, no “Buy it now” or the price goes up, no made-up discounts, no pressure. Simple, straightforward, fair prices for top-quality products installed by the best and most knowledgeable company in the area. And our quotes are good for as long as you need to think it over. The only reason our price would ever change is a price increase from the manufacturer.
Do I have to make a decision at our meeting? I want to think about it.
While many of our customers sign up for our window and door replacement services right away, you certainly don’t have to. Window and door projects can be a large investment and you would be crazy not to put some thought into it! We will never use high-pressure sales tactics or threaten to raise our price if you don’t commit right away. We want you to have all the time you need to do your research and make an informed decision before deciding to work with us. Our estimates are good for as long as you need. The only time our price could change would be if we were to encounter a price increase from one of our manufacturers.
Do both partners have to be home for our in-home meeting?
The choice is yours! We want to be able to answer everyone’s project-related questions, but if it isn’t possible for you to both be there, that’s okay. During our meeting, we will discuss your replacement window and door needs and expectations and provide you with a detailed quote for the completion of the entire project including windows, doors, materials, and anything else related to your project. No gimmicks, hassles, or other high-pressure sales tactics.
How do I save money on my project?
There are a lot of ways to save money on your project and a few ways you want to stay away from. First and foremost, NEVER sacrifice window quality or installation quality to save money! During your in-home consultation, we will offer ideas and suggestions to save money on your project. We will never come to your home and try to sell you things you don’t need or that won’t benefit you or your home. We are here to help you, not drain your bank account.
Do you offer new construction windows?
We do offer new construction windows. Whether you want us to install them in your new home or have your builder install them, we would love to be a part of building your dream home!
Do you offer cash and carry windows?
If you are up for the task of installing your new windows yourself, we would be happy to help get you started with a top-quality product. Whether you already know exactly what you want or need a little help choosing the right option, we are here for you!
Do you offer Commercial windows?
We do offer commercial windows! Our windows are commercially rated and will add comfort to your building that you never knew was possible. We have installed tons of commercial windows and have many options to add energy efficiency, style, and security to your building.
Understanding the Warranty
How long is the warranty?
While we do offer multiple brands of windows and doors, we have hand selected these brands based on a lot of different factors with warranty being high on the list. All of the products we offer proudly boast a lifetime warranty that is non-prorated. We know windows can be a large investment, but we believe once they are installed you should never have to dig into your wallet again.
What does the warranty cover?
Our products offer some of the best warranties in the industry. All of our products carry a lifetime warranty that is non-prorated. And when we say lifetime, we mean it! As long as your home is standing your windows are covered. This warranty covers every piece and part of your windows and doors including frames, glass, hardware, moving and non-moving parts, and more!
Who do I contact for warranty issues?
If for some reason you should have an issue with any of your windows or doors, give us a call! We will handle any issues you have in a prompt and timely manner!
Understanding Replacement Windows
What is a replacement window?
A replacement window is custom-designed to fit into the opening left when your existing window is removed, so there is no need to remove your home’s exterior materials when installing your new windows. Each replacement window is precisely measured to fit perfectly in your home just like when it was built, with no guesswork.
How do I know if I need windows?
Chances are if you are here, you already know you need new windows. However, it may be time to replace your windows if:
*They have become difficult to operate.
*They are drafty or cold in the winter.
*Energy bills continue to increase.
*It is difficult to control the climate in your home.
*There is fog between the panes of glass.
*There is excessive noise from outside.
*They are damaged or have broken glass.
*Your window frames are rotted.
*The condition of your windows is affecting curb appeal.
What material is best for a replacement window?
There is no “one size fits all” replacement window. We offer fiberglass and vinyl options to fit your needs, design, and budget. During our in-home consultation, we will evaluate your project and go over all the pros and cons to help guide you to the perfect fit for your home.
Do your windows come in different styles?
We offer a variety of windows from different manufacturers. We offer Fiberglass and Vinyl windows to meet the needs and budget of our customers. We offer Double-hung, Two Lite Sliders, Three Lite Sliders, Picture windows, Casements, Awnings, Fixed Casements, Bay Windows, Bow windows, Garden Windows, Half Round windows, Arch top Windows, Circle and Oval Windows, Trapezoid Windows, and other Specialty shaped windows custom made for your home.
Do your windows come in different colors?
Our windows come in an unlimited number of colors in an unlimited number of combinations. We offer a large selection of standard colors to choose from, optional upgraded colors, as well as custom colors. Our windows have the availability to have a different color outside than inside as well as wood veneer options for the interior. We can customize your windows to fit ANY style you choose!
Do you offer different glass options?
We offer a variety of glass packages to choose from, grid options, obscure glass options, tint, self-cleaning glass, and more.
Do I need to replace all my windows at once?
Not at all! Depending on the condition of your current windows and budget, sometimes it makes sense to just replace some of your windows. We will never try to talk you into replacing more than you are comfortable with. We will help evaluate and offer advice on what we think would work best, but ultimately the choice is yours.
What do all these terms mean?
When shopping for windows you will hear a lot of terms that may be confusing. Here are some of the common terms you will see and what they mean:
*Double Pane Glass- two pieces of glass sealed together with a spacer between the panes. Double pane glass insulates better and gives the ability to be filled with argon gas between the panes to further add to its energy efficiency.
*Double Strength Glass- thicker than typical annealed glass and is heat treated to add strength. This resists accidental breakage and increased overall durability.
*Tempered Glass-also referred to as safety glass, is produced with controlled thermal treatment to increase strength up to 4x more than regular glass. When broken tempered glass will shatter into small granular chunks rather than splintering into large jagged shards.
*Obscure Glass- Describes any glass that is partially or fully opaque giving privacy without the need for blinds or curtains. This is a popular option in bathrooms.
*U Value- Measures the amount of heat transferred through a window. This equates to the amount of warm or cool air a glass unit will keep inside your home. The lower the number the better.
*Low-E coating- Low-e stands for low emissivity. This is a thin transparent coating of silver oxide, when applied measures one-ten thousandth the thickness of a human hair. Low-E blocks long radiation wavelengths (heat and harmful UV rays) while allowing short wavelengths (visible light) to pass through.
*Argon Gas- Naturally occurring, non-toxic, non-reactive gas found in the atmosphere. Argon is 40% denser than air making it a great insulator as well as an excellent sound barrier.
*SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient)- SHGC is the incident solar radiation transmitted through the glass that falls between long and short wavelengths. A balanced solar heat gain coefficient will provide extra heat in the winter while remaining cool in the summer.
*VT (Visible Light Transmittance)-The amount of visible light transferred through a window. Low-E coatings reject heat but allow a great amount of visible light transmittance, whereas a tinted window may block some heat but will greatly reduce visible light transmittance.
*Thermal Conductivity- Measures a material’s ability to conduct heat or cold through that material. The lower the thermal conductivity the better. For example, an aluminum framed window will have high thermal conductivity and the window frame will feel cold inside during the winter.
*Thermal Expansion- The rate at which a material expands and contracts in hot and cold. Less thermal expansion is better in a window framing material. The less a window expands and contracts, the better it will be at maintaining its shape and keeping a tight seal
Understanding the Install
Can I install windows myself?
Installing windows correctly in your own home is a big job! Most of the time it is best left to a professional that is equipped with the knowledge and experience to take on this task. From taking precise measurements to understanding how the existing windows will need to be removed, to installing the new units centered, square, plumb, and level, to interior and exterior trim and caulk, there is a lot to a window or door install! However, if you are quite handy, have the time to tackle a big project, have the tools to do the job, and have an understanding of what is involved in a project like replacing your windows can be, it is entirely possible! We do offer cash and carry options and would be happy to supply you with a top-quality window to put in your home! If you are not comfortable installing your own windows, we have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to install your windows beautifully and in an efficient and timely manner.
How long does installation take?
We are very efficient when it comes to installing your windows. We have the knowledge, experience, and proper tools to make even the biggest jobs as seamless as possible. While we will never cut corners or rush a job, we will typically have your project completed in a day or two. Depending on the size of your project and the number of windows as well as a few other factors, it could take longer, but we will never leave your project unfinished to work on another customer’s project. We will not leave any windows open overnight or any longer than necessary. The job is not finished until you are satisfied.
What do I need to do before the installation?
On install day we only ask for a few things. We ask that you remove blinds and window coverings and give us access to about 3ft of clear space inside in front of the windows to be replaced. When we get to your home, we will need a spot in the driveway for our truck (workshop on wheels) and although most of our tools are battery-operated we will need a place to plug in. In most cases, the trim we install will be primed and ready for paint. We are great window guys, but not professional painters so it will be up to you to hire a painter or paint the trim yourself. That’s it, we take care of the rest!
What about second and third-story homes?
We are equipped with the safest and most efficient methods to install windows on homes with multiple stories. We have invested in industry-leading products to be able to get the job done safely and securely without the risk of damaging your home or our guys. No job is too big!
Is window installation messy?
Window installation can be a bit messy. After all, it does include some light demolition and some dust can be a byproduct. However, we take every precaution to make sure your home is in the same condition when we leave as it was when we got there. We will tarp off any work areas, walkways, furniture, bedding, and other things that may be near our work area. Once we are done and the tarps are removed we will vacuum and make sure everything is cleaned up inside and out. The only thing that may be needed is a light dusting when we are finished. All of your old windows and project-related trash are hauled away by us.
How long will my house be without windows during the installation?
We are very mindful of your comfort during the window installation process. We work on one window at a time and we don’t remove anything until the new window is unwrapped and ready to be set back in. We have found that on average your home is only without a window for about 8 minutes per opening.
What do you do to ensure a leak-free, draft-free installation?
We take great pride in our work and we want your installation to last a lifetime just like your windows. After all, a good window with a bad install is a bad window. We begin by re-measuring to ensure the new window will fit perfectly and carefully remove your old windows without damaging the exterior materials of your home. Once the old window is out we inspect for any rotted wood in the window or door opening and replace as needed. We set the new window in the opening making sure it is centered, level, square, and plumb. Once the window is secured we inject a closed cell minimally expanding foam around the perimeter of the entire unit to ensure it is air and watertight. On the exterior, we install a custom-made, maintenance-free aluminum trim and caulk to perfection ensuring everything is sealed. Inside, the new windows are trimmed and caulked with top-quality paintable caulk.