Q: Where are my windows made and by whom?
A: Your new Replacement Windows will be manufactured by Soft-Lite Windows at their custom window manufacturing facility in Cleveland, Ohio.

Q: How long will it take to manufacture and install my new Windows?
A: Once your order has been placed with our Sales Representative it will go through several check and balances to minimize the possibility of any errors. Your new windows will then be custom manufactured and installed typically with 4-8 weeks.

Q: Are Republics windows custom built to fit my home?
A: Yes, instead of altering your home to fit our windows, Republic Windows and Doors manufacture every window specifically to fit the openings of your home.

Q: Who will install my new Echo windows?
A: We are proud of our reputation for service and quality. Customer satisfaction is our number one priority! Our installers are employed by Builders & Remodelers (not sub-contractors) and are certified to standards set by AAMA and Republic Windows and Doors (our manufacturer) meaning they are InstallationMasters.

Q: What is AAMA?
A: AAMA is the American Architectural Manufactures Association. Founded in 1936, it is the source of performance standards, product certification and educational programs for the window, door and skylight industry. Numerous AAMA standards, including the standard that is the foundation of the AAMA product certification program are referenced internationally and in national, state and local building codes. AAMA is the established and trusted leader in third-party window and door certification programs.

Q: What is InstallationMasters?
A: InstallationMasters is a nationwide training and certification program for installers of windows and patio doors in the residential and light commercial markets. The program was developed by AAMA after prompting the Building and Thermal Envelope Council (BETEC) through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). InstallationMasters is designed to teach installers the best practices and installation techniques for both new construction and replacement projects based on established industry standards. It provides an assurance that your installer has been trained and has passed the written exam.

Q: Is Builders & Remodelers a member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB)?
A: Yes, Builders & Remodelers are dedicated to providing excellent customer service and is a member in good standing with the Better Business Bureau in Minnesota. Builders & Remodelers has a current BBB rating of A+.

Q: Will I have to deal with the disposal of my old windows and construction debris?
A: No, Builders & Remodelers crews will clean up and haul away your old windows, siding, roofing, doors and any debris associated with the demolition and installation of your new windows, siding, roofing or doors.

Q: Who do I contact regarding warranty issues or service on my new Republic windows if the need should arise in the future?
A: Depending on your warranty issues it will either be handled through Builders & Remodelers or through one of our manufactures. If an issue arises with regards to installation the warranty will be handled through Builders & Remodelers. If an issue arises with regards to the product itself the warranty will be handled through the manufacture. If you are unsure to the nature of the issue contact Builders & Remodelers for assistance.

Q: Are Soft-Lite Windows and Doors rated for energy efficiency?
A: Yes, all of Echo windows and doors have been tested by the National Fenestration Rating Council and have received both the NFRC accreditation and Energy Star Rating for energy efficiency.

Q: What is an Energy Star Rating?
A: A typical household spends about $1,900 a year on energy bills and contributes twice the amount of greenhouse gases to the environment as an average car. ENERGY STAR, the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, can guide you in making your home more energy efficient, reducing high energy bills, improving comfort, and protecting the environment- whether you do it yourself or hire a qualified professional.

Q: Why choose Builders & Remodelers over the competition (i.e. Home Depot)?
A: All of our windows and doors are custom built to fit your house and we only deal with products that are of the highest quality.

Q: Why not Pella, Anderson or Marvin?
A: Although Pella, Anderson and Marvin are great companies Builders & Remodelers is a locally owned and operated company that has been in the same location (3517 Hennepin Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55408) since 1952.


Q: Why choose vinyl windows or vinyl siding?
A: Vinyl windows and vinyl siding are a great way to make your home maintenance-free. Giving you more time to do the activities you enjoy.

Q: What is soffit?
A: Soffit is the underside of any construction element. In popular use, soffit most often refers to the material forming a ceiling from the top of an exterior house wall to the outer edge of the roof (i.e. bridging the gap between a home’s siding and the roofline).

Q: What is fascia?
A: Fascia is a term which generally describes any vertical surface which spans across the top of columns or across the top of a wall. Specifically, used to describe the vertical “fascia board” that caps the end of the rafters outside a building, which can be used to hold the rain gutter.

Q: What products and services does Builders & Remodelers offer?
A: Windows, Siding, Exterior Doors and Roofing are the main aspects of Builders & Remodelers.

Q: What is an U-Value?

A: The U-Value is a measure of thermal resistance use in the building and construction industry. The lower the number, the better the building insulation's effectiveness.