5 Steps for Choosing a Window Company

Although replacing windows on your own can be an easy project if you have the skill set,  doing it on your own and possibly the wrong way could lead to many problems that could result in inefficient windows. So in most cases, you will need to hire a window installer or window company to do the job for you.

Choosing a good window installer or company for a window replacement project is a matter to take seriously. If you choose a sub-par window replacement company, it could end up costing you a lot of time, money and effort down the road.

Since choosing a good window replacement company is so essential, here are 5 steps you can take to make the job easier for you.

Step 1: Do Your Research

If you are ready to buy replacement windows, you may find yourself getting overwhelmed with all the options.  To avoid feeling stressed, it’s important to do your research first before meeting with a window company or installer. This way you are prepared and know what you are looking for before meeting with any company.

It’s also important to note that there are window companies and installers out there that specialize in exactly what you’re looking for.

Are you looking for a reduction in your energy bills? Are you looking to add a beautiful warm wood look to your home? Once you know what you’re looking for, you can dwindle down your list of possible companies or installers to work with if some don’t offer what you want.

Knowing what you want in advance will better prepare you to ask the right questions. It will also make the process faster and save you a lot of headaches and money.

Step 2: Shop Around

It’s important to keep in mind that there isn’t just one window installer or window replacement company out there. When considering a project as large as a window replacement project, it’s key to know that there are options for you to choose from.

By getting different estimates, you’ll get an idea of the general price range for window replacement and can identify a price that may be too high or too low. Then, using price as one factor, you can choose who you want to work with based on other things such as communication, punctuality and professionalism.

When getting estimates from different window contractors and companies, it is important to provide each one with the same information regarding what you are looking for. Any window company you consider should offer a quote on the same job otherwise you will not have a basis for comparison.

It may seem time consuming to meet with more than one window company or installer. However, if you only get one estimate, how will you know if you’re getting the best deal?

Step 3: Licensed?

Before starting your project, you’ll want to know if your local jurisdiction requires a permit and/or if the installer or company has to be licensed and certified to complete the work. Not all states require an installer to be licensed to perform the work and not all cities or towns require a permit.

Don’t assume that all contractors have a valid license or that they’re reputable. Contact your local village hall or township to find out if there is a license requirement and if there have been any outstanding complaints made about any of the companies you’re interested in using.

Finally, ask the installer or window company if subcontractors will be used on the project. If yes, make sure they have current insurance coverage and licenses.

Step 4: Warranty Check

As you consider lots of other factors when it comes to choosing a window company or window installer, you’ll also want to think about protecting your investment long term. Which window company or installer can provide a warranty for your products?

It’s important that your products are covered should anything go wrong in the future. If they are not covered by a warranty, your window investment will become much higher when having to pay for any repairs.

Now, keep in mind, each window installer and company has different products and different manufacturers and as a result will have different warranties. However, there are a few things you should look for in every product warranty.

Does the warranty cover the actual window as well as the labor? It’s important that a company or installer covers the product itself as well as the labor if anything should go wrong down the road.

How long will my warranty cover my windows? Most companies will say “a lifetime,” which is a very vague term. Does “lifetime” mean the lifetime of the window, the lifetime of your home or the lifetime of how long you live in your home? It is important to get clarification on that.

There are also companies out there that offer transferrable warranties. This means that once you sell your home the windows are covered for the next home owner, as well. This is beneficial because it adds to your home’s value making it easier when you are ready to sell.

The warranty is one measure that tells the consumer just how confident the window company is about the products they are supplying and installing.

Step 5: Check out References

Lastly, make sure to verify a company’s references. Family members, neighbors and friends can be great references if they have dealt with that particular window company in the past.

There are also sites out there that can help you choose the correct window company for your home improvement project. Websites like Yelp, Angie’s List and other review sites are a resource many people use to find a good and reputable window company.

Homeowners use review sites because they have user reviews which can be very useful in your search, but it is also important to not base your decision only on reviews you read. Some reviewers may give higher or lower than average ratings. However, looking at the company’s overall rating can be useful, and you can also look at comments to see what people liked and disliked about a contractor’s or company’s work in general.

When it comes to choosing a company to do the job of replacing your homes’ windows, be sure to do all your research and choose the company that’s right for you.