About Universal Windows Direct
A Leading Exterior Remodeling Contractor
Founded in 2002 by William Barr and Michael Strmac, Universal Windows Direct has dedicated itself to constant and never-ending improvement. From our humble beginnings as a local home improvement company, we have grown into one of the largest exterior remodeling contractors in the country. With a strong belief in the power of customer-centric service, our entire team, from founders to installers, puts customers first.
At Universal Windows Direct, our mission is clear: to provide the highest-quality home improvement products at the best market prices while delivering a first-class customer experience. We take pride in offering exceptional products that adhere to the industry’s strictest standards. Whether it’s our UniShield® windows, doors, and siding, or our roofing, gutter protection, and attic insulation from top brands, our products are designed with energy efficiency, beauty, durability, and ease of maintenance in mind.
Our History
2002
Co-founders William Barr and Michael Strmac meet at The Diner on Clifton in Cleveland, OH to discuss launching a new business together. Universal Windows Direct is created from that meeting.
2002
The first office location is opened in Akron, OH
2003
Mike & Bill hire UWD’s first employee – Eric Sears
2005
UWD relocates their office to Valley View, OH
2007
UWD opens it’s first authorized retail (dealer) location
2008
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #129 home improvement company in the nation.
2008
UWD relocates to Oakwood Village, OH
2009
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #73 home improvement company in the nation.
2010
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #46 home improvement company in the nation.
2010
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #32 exterior remodeling company in the nation.
2010
Mike and Bill receive the Ernst & Young Entrepreneurs of the Year.
2010
Weatherhead 100 award winner.
2011
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #34 home improvement company in the nation.
2011
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #26 exterior remodeling company in the nation.
2011
Universal Windows Direct of Charlotte location opened
2011
CEO William Barr featured in Small Business Magazine.
2012
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #31 home improvement company in the nation.
2012
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #16 exterior remodeling company in the nation.
2012
Window & Door Magazine – 2012 Dealer of the Year for Excellence in Marketing.
2013
Inc. 5000 – One of the fastest growing companies in the nation.
2013
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #28 home improvement company in the nation.
2013
The UWD motto and jingle are born: You’ll be saying… “I Love My Windows!”
2013
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #16 exterior remodeling company in the nation.
2013
Remodeling Magazine – #14 on the Remodeling 550 list
2014
Voted a Top Workplace 2014.
2014
Partnership with the Brian Hoyer of the Cleveland Browns
2014
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #29 home improvement company in the nation.
2014
Weatherhead 100 Winner – #43 fastest growing company in the region.
2014
William Barr, “Four Keys for Setting and Achieving Goals” – TEDx
2014
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #23 exterior remodeling company in the nation.
2014
Remodeling Magazine – #15 on the Remodeling 550 list
2015
Partnership with Joe Thomas of the Cleveland Browns
2015
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #20 home improvement company in the nation.
2015
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #17 home improvement pro list.
2015
Launch of the Free Window Experience
2015
Universal Windows Direct of Indianapolis location opened
2015
Remodeling Magazine – #11 on the Remodeling 550 list
2016
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #16 home improvement company in the nation.
2016
Remodeling Magazine – #9 on the Remodeling 550 list
2016
Partnership with the Hue Jackson of the Cleveland Browns
2016
Universal Windows Direct of Columbus location opened
2017
Celebrating 15 years of service!
2017
Partnership with the Cleveland Indians
2017
Buy in July promotion is a huge success. UWD gives away over $2 million in home improvement because the Cleveland Indians win 15 games in a row
2017
Voted a Top Workplace 2017
2017
Universal Windows Direct of St Louis location opened
2017
Remodeling Magazine – #7 on the Remodeling 550 list
2017
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #15 home improvement company in the nation.
2018
Universal Windows Direct of Northwest Kentucky (Louisville) opened.
2018
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #11 home improvement company in the nation.
2018
Remodeling Magazine – #8 on the Remodeling 550 list
2018
Partnership with the Indianapolis Colts
2018
Voted a Top Workplace 2018
2018
Weatherhead 100 Winner
2018
Partnership with Ohio State University Athletics
2018
Renewed our partnership with Joe Thomas formerly of the Cleveland Browns
2019
Universal Windows Direct of Pittsburgh opened.
2019
UWD’s new home is designed to create a more fluid customer service experience while providing employees an exceptional place to grow professionally and personally.
2019
Voted a Top Workplace 2019
2019
Inc. 5000 #870 – One of the fastest growing companies in the nation.
2019
Remodeling Magazine – #7 on the Remodeling 550 list
2019
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #10 home improvement company in the nation.
2019
Universal Windows Direct of Chicago opened
2020
Universal Windows Direct of Milwaukee opened.
2020
Qualified Remodeler Magazine – #12 home improvement company in the nation.
2020
Developed Virtual Consultations in response to the Global Pandemic – allowing us to continue providing service to homeowners while protecting both them and our employees.
2020
Voted a Top Workplace 2020
2020
Remodeling Magazine – #6 on the Remodeling 550 list
2022
The Future
The future for Universal Windows Direct will continue to revolve around our philosophy of constant and never ending improvement. For our employees, this means always working to be the best, always growing, and always learning. For our customers, this means getting only the best quality products possible, at a reasonable value, and knowing that your investment will be protected for as long as you own your home with world-class service and support.
An Exterior Remodeling Company That Puts Customers First
Our team is passionate about what they do and eager to share their expertise with our valued customers. Our qualified craftsmen are industry-leading installers with years of experience in the home improvement business. Every interaction is marked by respect, attentive listening, and prompt response to your concerns and inquiries. We are committed to getting every detail right, every time.
With a 95% customer satisfaction score, numerous accolades, and advanced certifications, Universal Windows Direct is trusted by homeowners across our service areas. Our dedication to providing an exceptional remodeling experience sets us apart. As an exterior remodeling contractor, we prioritize constant improvement, a True Lifetime Warranty, white-glove service, budget-friendly solutions, and unbeatable value. Join the countless satisfied customers who have experienced the difference of choosing Universal Windows Direct.
TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH UWD
Join Our Award Winning Team
Customer Reviews
Since 2002, Universal Windows Direct has maintained a reputation for providing white-glove service along with the best value available on custom exterior remodeling services. See what our customers have to say.