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Guide to Hiring Installers
There are five steps to hiring a window installer. When hiring an installer you want the best - a contractor or company that will offer you the best quality workmanship. Choosing the right installer is probably just as important as choosing the right windows for your home.
Step 1 – Understanding
It's imperative you fully understand why it's so important to choose the best window installation company or contractor. The last thing you want is for your window to allow rain, moisture or dirt to make its way into your home, which is why it's essential the windows are installed and sealed properly. You can spend a fortune on the windows, but a bad installation will leave these expensive windows at the same quality as the cheapest windows on the market. Find out more on our window calculator page to get an idea of prices.
Step 2 – Obtain Quotes
It's always a good idea to get a minimum of three quotes from local contractors. Bear in mind that every window project is different so getting a number of quotes enables you to review and compare them against each other. You'll want to pay careful attention to the window prices and the installation prices. Be sure to check if there are any additional charges, often contractors will need some additional materials to ensure the job is completed to your satisfaction. Comparing the quotes gives you a good indication on what you can expect to pay. Discard any quotes that are over-the-top or not in line with the others. Remember cheaper isn't always better, but overpriced isn't always the solution - choose from those that offer similar lined prices.
Step 3 – Research and Review
The best place to really find true customer reviews is on the internet. Home improvement forums such as www.replacement-windows.com, www.gardenweb.com and www.replacementwindowsreviews.co are all good places to start. You can actually ask professional installers and contractors what they think of the estimates you have received and get their honest feedback. Be sure to include the size of the windows, the number of window and the windows you have been quoted on so the professionals online can give you informed answers to your questions. In some cases you may find your quotes are good, but in other cases the online contractors may suggest you try other brands or that the pricing is too high and give you some suggestions on what to try.
Step 4 – Review Your Contractor
If the online contractors agree you have a good quote and you're thinking this is the one, you need to review your contractor. Do they have a website you can look at? Are they professional? What do their online reviews say about them and their workmanship? You can do an online search for the company uses Yelp or Google where you will find honest reviews. There is also BBB, and Angies List, though Angies list is a paid service. From this you can determine how happy their past customers are with their service and work, you can see if there were any problems and if their work has lasted.
Step 5 – Retrace Your Steps
Before you sign on the dotted line you should retrace your steps. Be sure you know exactly who will be knocking on your door and carrying out the installation. Bigger companies such as Home Depot will use sub-contractors. It's important the contractors are paid a good rate so you know they won't rush the job and will do it properly. Determine who will be responsible if any problems arise and double check on a labor warranty.
Final Tip
Try to use a contractor who has been working with the manufacturer for many years, someone the trust to produce quality windows that will stand the test of time.