Downsides That May Make You Reconsider Buying New Windows From Home Depot

There are several reasons you may want to install new windows. Energy-efficient windows with triple-pane or Low-E coating can help lower your monthly bills. Double-hung or casement windows opened by a crank can improve accessibility for older members of your family or those with limited mobility. Multipoint locking systems can make your home safer by keeping young children in and intruders out. Replacing dated windows with modern versions framed in vinyl or fiberglass can improve your resale value. However, even if you've determined what type of windows are best, you have another important choice to make: where to buy them. Home Depot carries a wide selection that you can buy right off the shelf. But poor customer service, delivery delays, and third-party installation issues are some downsides that may make you reconsider buying your new windows from this home improvement store.

Home Depot sells windows made by well-known brands, including Anderson, Ply Gem, and Jeld-Wen. You'll find all different kinds of windows at your local store, from tiny aluminum-clad skylights filled with argon gas for energy efficiency to giant vinyl bay windows with Mag-lock hardware. It's easy to shop online for common window sizes. You can schedule a virtual or in-home consultation if you need help measuring or picking out the right windows for your space. They'll even price match 'like for like' quotes from their competitors. However, it's the company's poor track record with services after you leave the store that make windows one of the things you should never buy at Home Depot.

Poor customer service is the most common complaint among customers during the purchase, delivery, or installation of their windows from Home Depot. We didn't have to look for very long to find feedback like "Nightmare," "Beware," "Horrible," and "I do not trust them one bit" among the hundreds of one-star reviews on Consumer Affairs. Several customers said they experienced problems like no-show installers or shoddy workmanship. Phone calls and emails to local stores, third-party contractors, and manufacturers would go completely unanswered. Many waited months longer than promised to receive their windows. Others weren't even able to get their project started due to receiving the wrong products entirely.

Professionals have also raised concerns. "You never speak to the same person twice," carpenter Larry Roland told CBS News while explaining why he never buys windows or doors from Home Depot. Jeff Ludy of The Window Experts claims Home Depot's DIY window installation instructions are "bait" and says their recommended processes can lead to costly water damage. Various other contractors and installers bring up similar issues, saying that you get what you pay for when using Home Depot's delivery and installation services. Some also suspect that big box stores, like Home Depot and Lowes, take a bigger bite than they can chew when it comes to the installation work they're paid to complete, claiming that the stores may hire average contractors instead of expert ones.

There are some simple ways to avoid experiencing the problems Home Depot customers report. Take advantage of the company's free consultation services as you begin the process of renovating your windows. Along with getting your windows professionally measured, you'll also have the opportunity to learn and ask questions about the various window types and materials available. If you decide to purchase windows from Home Depot, buy directly off the store shelves so you can examine them for any obvious defects like scratched frames, damaged seals, or other quality issues frequently mentioned by unsatisfied customers. And, consider borrowing or renting a truck to transport the windows yourself to avoid delivery delays.

Before making the investment, it's a good idea to talk with local carpenters, contractors, and window companies to get multiple bids that you can compare against your quote from Home Depot. This can help ensure you get the best pricing possible on both the materials and installation. Don't rely on Home Depot's third-party installers without carefully considering your other options. Small businesses tend to provide better overall customer service. No matter which company you decide to use, instead of paying entirely upfront, agree on a payment schedule to ensure your window installation is completed satisfactorily. Lastly, carefully read and understand the fine print prior to making your purchase, including any exclusions, financing, installation, and warranty details.