Frequently asked questions
Find clear answers about ordering, measuring, product options, energy efficiency, delivery, warranties, returns, and building requirements.
Ordering and purchasing
Can I buy windows and doors online?
Yes. You can configure and purchase custom windows and doors online. Select the product type, size, frame, glass, color, grid, and available energy options, review the price, and complete the order through the secure checkout.
How do I customize my windows online?
The product configurator guides you through each available option. Your selections update the product and pricing as you move through the process.
What payment methods do you accept?
ClearMax accepts major credit cards and may offer financing options at checkout. Available payment methods and financing terms are shown before the order is completed.
Can I save my configuration and return later?
Yes. Saved configurations and cart items can be accessed through your ClearMax account. Sign back in to review, update, or complete the order.
Do I need an account to place an order?
An account is required during checkout. It allows you to review orders, access saved configurations, receive updates, and contact customer support.
Measuring and sizing
How do I measure a window for ordering?
Measure the width and height of the window opening, not only the visible glass. Measure each dimension in three places and record the smallest measurement. The correct measuring method depends on whether the project uses a replacement, block-frame, or new-construction installation.
What should I do if I am unsure about my measurements?
Have a qualified installer or contractor verify the opening before ordering. Custom products are manufactured to the approved dimensions and generally cannot be returned because of customer measurement errors.
Are windows and doors available in standard sizes?
Some products are commonly ordered in standard dimensions, but size availability varies by product and manufacturer. ClearMax products are configured to the dimensions approved for the order.
What are the minimum and maximum product sizes?
Size limits vary by product type, configuration, glass package, and manufacturer. The online configurator will prevent or flag dimensions outside the available range.
Product options and features
What window types are available?
Available styles may include single-hung, picture, casement, awning, two-lite slider, three-lite slider, and specialty windows. Availability depends on the selected product line.
What door types are available?
Available options may include sliding patio doors, French doors, hinged doors, and multi-panel sliding systems. Product availability and configurations vary by location and product line.
What frame colors are available?
Common choices include white, almond, black, and selected two-tone combinations. The configurator shows the colors available for the chosen product.
What is the difference between nail-on, block-frame, and retrofit windows?
Nail-on frames are generally used for new construction and full-frame installations. Block frames are often used when the opening does not require a mounting fin. Retrofit frames are designed to fit within an existing frame when the project conditions allow it.
What grid styles are available?
Options may include no grid, colonial patterns, perimeter or marginal grids, and flat or sculptured profiles. Available styles depend on the selected product.
Energy efficiency and glass
What is Low-E glass?
Low-E glass has a thin coating designed to improve thermal performance while allowing visible light through. It can help reduce heat transfer and limit ultraviolet exposure.
What energy packages are available?
Available glass packages are designed for different climate and performance needs. The options shown in the configurator depend on the product, destination, and selected specifications.
Are ENERGY STAR certified products available?
ENERGY STAR certified configurations may be available. Certification depends on the exact product, glass package, performance ratings, and climate zone. Review the product documentation before ordering.
What is the difference between standard and tempered glass?
Tempered glass is heat-treated for additional strength and breaks into smaller pieces when damaged. Building codes may require safety glazing in doors, bathrooms, near floors, and other hazardous locations.
What do U-Factor and SHGC mean?
U-Factor measures heat transfer through the product, with lower values generally indicating better insulation. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient measures how much solar heat passes through the glass. The appropriate ratings depend on the project and climate.
Shipping and delivery
How much does delivery cost?
Standard delivery is a flat $299 per eligible delivery. The fee is charged per delivery, not per individual window or door.
Where is standard delivery available?
Standard delivery is available in approved ZIP codes across California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, Utah, Texas, Louisiana, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, North Dakota, South Dakota, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia. Delivery availability must be confirmed using the destination ZIP code.
How does curbside delivery work?
Standard delivery is curbside. The truck will travel as close to the delivery address as it can safely and legally access. If a gate, narrow road, parked vehicle, low clearance, steep grade, soft ground, construction activity, or another obstacle prevents access, the driver will leave the products at the closest safe and accessible location.
What is the typical production time?
Typical production time is approximately four weeks after the order, specifications, and payment are finalized. Timing can vary by product, options, order size, and factory schedule, so four weeks is an estimate rather than a guaranteed date.
What is the customer responsible for at delivery?
The customer must provide safe truck access, a clear unloading location, an authorized adult to receive the order, and enough people or equipment to move the products from the curbside drop-off point. Inside delivery, installation, storage, cranes, forklifts, and special handling are not included in the $299 fee.
What should I do if the shipment arrives damaged?
Inspect the shipment when it arrives. Note visible damage or missing items on the delivery receipt, take photographs before the driver leaves, and contact ClearMax promptly. Do not install a visibly damaged product before reporting it.
Warranty and support
What warranty is included?
Many products include a manufacturer limited lifetime warranty. Coverage, duration, transferability, and exclusions vary by product and manufacturer. Review the warranty documents provided for the selected product.
What does a typical manufacturer warranty cover?
Coverage may include qualifying manufacturing defects, insulated-glass seal failure, hardware issues, or frame defects. Improper installation, accidents, abuse, alterations, and normal wear are generally excluded.
How do I request warranty support?
Contact ClearMax with the order number, product information, photographs, and a description of the issue. The support team will explain the documentation and next steps required for the applicable warranty process.
Returns and order changes
Can I return or exchange custom products?
Custom windows and doors are manufactured to the approved specifications and generally cannot be returned or exchanged unless there is qualifying shipping damage or a confirmed manufacturing defect.
What if my order arrives damaged?
Inspect the order at delivery, document the condition on the delivery receipt, take photographs, and contact ClearMax promptly. Damage claims may be affected when the shipment is accepted without notation.
Can I modify an order after it is placed?
Contact ClearMax immediately. Changes may be possible before production begins. Once manufacturing starts, modifications may be unavailable or may require additional charges.
Can I cancel an order?
Cancellation depends on the production status and applicable order terms. Contact ClearMax immediately because custom orders may become non-cancellable once production begins.
Building codes and compliance
Do the products meet local building codes?
Products are available with different performance ratings and configurations, but local requirements vary. The customer, contractor, architect, or other responsible professional must confirm that the selected product meets the project’s code, permit, safety-glazing, energy, wind, fire, and installation requirements.
Can I order windows for new construction?
Yes. New-construction and replacement configurations may be available. Select the frame and installation type required for the project.
Do I need a permit to replace windows or doors?
Permit requirements vary by location and project scope. Check with the local building department or the licensed professional responsible for the installation before work begins.
Still have questions?
The ClearMax team can help with product options, ordering, measurements, delivery, and your next steps.
