Universal Windows Direct

Universal Windows Direct: exterior remodeling with energy-efficient windows and doors

Universal Windows Direct is an American exterior remodeling company founded in 2002 by William Barr and Michael Strmac. Its business focuses on the installation of windows, doors, siding, gutters, roofing, and attic insulation, with the goal of improving comfort, energy efficiency, and the exterior appeal of homes. The company presents itself as one of the largest exterior remodeling contractors in the country and operates through a network of company-owned locations and authorized dealers.

Exterior remodeling products and services

Universal Windows Direct's catalog covers several categories of products for the exterior of the home:

• Windows: double hung, sliding, garden, picture, bay and bow, and crank-out models, with custom installation and energy efficiency options.
• Doors: entry doors, patio doors, and sliding glass doors.
• Siding: vinyl siding in various colors, plus shakes, scallops, and soffit.
• Gutters: gutter protection systems designed to keep out leaves, debris, and pests, and to protect foundations from water.
• Roofing: roof installation and replacement with Owens Corning shingles.
• Attic insulation: Owens Corning insulation solutions to create a thermal barrier, reduce heat loss, and improve indoor air quality.

The company markets its windows, doors, and siding under its own UniShield® brand, focused on energy efficiency, durability, and low maintenance.

Warranty, financing, and work process

Universal Windows Direct offers a True Lifetime Warranty that protects the investment after installation. It also has flexible financing options to adapt projects to different budgets. The work process is described as clear and supported: from the first conversation to the final walkthrough, the company keeps the customer informed and handles the details of the project. The company states that its team, from the founders to the installers, prioritizes customer service.

History and expansion

The company was founded in 2002 in Cleveland, Ohio, and opened its first office in Akron, Ohio, that same year. In 2003 it hired its first employee and in 2005 it moved its office to Valley View, Ohio. In 2007 it opened its first authorized retail location (dealer) and in 2008 it moved to Oakwood Village, Ohio. Over the following decades, Universal Windows Direct expanded its presence with locations in Charlotte (2011), Indianapolis (2015), Columbus (2016), St. Louis (2017), and Northwest Kentucky/Louisville (2018), among others. The company has received recognition such as appearing on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in 2013, being voted a Top Workplace in 2014 and 2017, and appearing on Qualified Remodeler and Remodeling Magazine lists in multiple years. In 2010, the founders received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneurs of the Year award.

Promotions and remodeling contest

The company's website shows a promotion active at the time of the analysis: "Buy 2 Windows, Get 2 FREE!" Likewise, Universal Windows Direct invites participation in a home remodeling contest valued at $100,000, in which the winner will be able to choose products from the Great Day Improvements family of brands, which includes replacement windows, sunrooms, bathrooms, and other items. The company also offers free, no-obligation quotes.

Presence and customers

Universal Windows Direct serves homeowners in various areas of the United States. The testimonials on its website mention customers in Chicago (Illinois) and St. Louis (Missouri). The company has a network of authorized dealers and company-owned locations that extend its geographic coverage.

Location and contact

Phone: (855) 395-9377