Matt Checksfield
I deeply regret replacing our windows with Comfort Windows.
Before signing anything, I asked very direct and specific questions about condensation and the risk of making our house too airtight. Our home is a very average 2005 build. I explicitly said I was worried that doing the front windows could be "the straw that broke the camels back" regarding being too air tight. I was clear with my question and concern.
The salesperson literally laughed at me and said this would never happen. He told me he had never seen that scenario before, that I should expect zero condensation, that the black spotting on our old windows would be gone, and that the new windows would be perfect.
After installation, the exact situation I warned about happened. (black moldy spots and all)
We now have significant condensation, including standing water pooling on the windowsills. That water soaks into the wood sill, runs down the drywall, and drips onto our hardwood floors. This is not minor fogging. This is puddling water causing real damage.
When the installation team came back, the explanation completely changed. Suddenly it was because there is a heat vent on the same wall as a window. Or because a window is recessed above the fireplace. These are completely normal features that exist in countless homes. Every house has heat somewhere on exterior walls. None of this was mentioned as a risk during the sales process.
One person even suggested that I open every window in the house for ten minutes every hour. That suggestion is absurd. It defeats the entire purpose of buying new windows, assumes someone is home all day to manage it, and eliminates any energy benefit.
There is already little to no financial return on new windows. The primary reason to replace them is to increase comfort by reducing drafts. Now I have a worse problem than before. To fix it, we are being told to use a dehumidifier. I am also looking into HRV system that sucks all the inside out and replaces it with outside air. Good bye any savings!
Do not rely on what Comfort Windows salespeople tell you. Their incentive is to sell and they have no skin in the game afterwards.
Suggestion for Comfort, make a portion of the sales team commission based on guest satisfaction. That will align your sales and operations team to work together, be honest and ensure your customer is satisfied. The best way to "be one team" is to tie their earnings to that metric.
Unless you live in a barn where the doors are constantly opening then don't spend the money on Comfort Windows. If you need a replacement window just purchase a less expensive window because if you go too air tight then you will just have a new set of problems to deal with.
Also, do your own research and do not expect honest guidance.
I would not recommend Comfort Windows to anyone.
Lastly, I wipe my windows down 2-3 times a day. These pictures are what happens in-between these wipe down sessions.