How To Make Sure Your Window Replacement Doesn’t Become a Construction Fail

If your windows are ten years old, it’s time to upgrade, because there is better, more efficient technology. New windows are one of the best investments you can make in terms of being more energy efficient for your house. BUT It is important to choose the right installer for your project to avoid your house becoming a construction fail/nightmare.

First You Need To Determine Whether You Need A Window Installer Or A Contractor

When it’s a basic case of replacing old windows with new windows in the same size opening, an experienced window installation company is a good choice. Do your research to ensure the company has a good workmanship warranty and will be there to handle any future problems should they arise. Keep in mind that a good carpenter can install a window, while a window installer may not always be experienced in handling special cases that require construction such as adding windows to walls where there have never been windows, or moving windows around.

Knowing how to choose a window installer will ensure the job is done properly, and your windows will perform as they should

Not all companies that advertise window installation among their “specialties” can be trusted to do the job right the first time. These tips will help you choose a window installer with the right combination of skill, experience, and knowledge to help avoid a construction fail/nightmare.

Tips For Choosing A Window Installer Or A Contractor

• You should look for someone who doesn’t work for one specific window manufacturer

It’s best to find an independent contractor who will help you find the best windows at a good price point instead of someone who operates as a salesperson for a specific brand. A window dealer is trying to make money by selling you a window. A contractor, on the other hand, doesn’t make money selling windows, but by installing them. For instance, We are contractors and we’d help you find the best windows that fit your budget, whereas a window dealer or a siding company—someone who’s not necessarily a window contractor—will usually have deals with distributors for certain windows. So they’re trying to make money not just installing the window but selling you a more expensive window that doesn’t necessarily correlate to a better product. Plus, when you choose an independent contractor you can feel good about supporting a local business.
• Skip the Upstarts or smaller companies

There are plenty of window installers around, so only consider those who have been in business at least five years. A track record of that length, at minimum, shows the company hasn’t worked itself out of business through poor-quality installation that gave it a horrible reputation and/or drove it into bankruptcy. This economy is strong and interest rates for home equity loans are low. Those realities have produced a booming home renovation market, including window replacement. There is money to be made for installers, and many without skill and experience are getting into the business. The inevitable result is that some homeowners get ripped off with shoddy window installation. Do your research. First of all, do they have a website? Do they appear reputable? We get most of our work from people who tell their friends and neighbors. So just ask for recommendations. That’s a really good thing, too, because then you’re working with a company who’s already worked with someone you know. Find someone with information that clearly displays their state license number, and shows that they’re bonded and insured. Those are usually indications that they do quality work because they’re publically releasing all of this information that makes them easy to track down. Always make sure that you’re using people who are licensed, bonded and insured.
• Hire the Crew – Not Just the Company

The high demand for window replacement is creating upstarts, as noted. It is also causing established companies to hire more installers to meet the demand. Some of those hires do not have skill or experience. You don’t want them installing your windows, whether you’re paying $250 per window for affordable Jeld-Wen vinyl or $1,000-plus for premium Andersen wood. It doesn’t matter if the company owner has 50 years experience and can perfectly install windows in his sleep. What about the new guy on the crew? What are his skills and experience?
•  Check Their Ratings

It’s easy to find window installers in your area. Ask family and friends for recommendations. Or do a simple search: “Window installers in my area,” for example. See what companies come up. Put together a short list, and then do your due diligence. The internet makes it really easy. Sites to check, in order of importance, are:
   • Google reviews
   • Better Business Bureau
   • Yelp
• Make Sure They are Licensed and Insured (and Bonded is Good too!)

A license demonstrates basic competence and also compliance with local building codes. Being insured means that if one of their crew members falls off a ladder and breaks a leg and goes on disability, you (probably) won’t get sued. That’s worker’s compensation insurance. It means that if they drop and destroy a $1,800 bay window assembly, their insurance will cover the replacement cost. That is liability insurance. Both are important. Being bonded means that if they go out of business half-way through the job, the cost of hiring a new contractor to finish the work will be covered. It means that if they are responsible for buying the windows, but fail to pay for them, you won’t have to. It means that if they do a terrible job (a scenario you can avoid with these tips, right?) and you have to hire a company to fix the issues, the cost will be covered. Those are just a few of many examples of the benefits of hiring a licensed, insured and bonded window installation contractor.
• Make Sure They’ve Installed Your Windows Before

Now we’re getting down to the nitty gritty. While installation is generally the same for all window brands, the best work will be done by an installer with excellent experience putting in the brand and series of windows you’re buying. Experience installing your brand can mean the difference between average and superior installation. The best installation ensures your windows will perform beautifully for the longest period of time.

It’s Okay If They Do Other Work

We’re not talking about companies that do nothing but sell and install windows and doors. Those companies should be considered. We’re talking about home remodeling companies that do windows, siding, roofing, decks, etc.

In The End...

If the window isn’t properly installed, you run the risk of having your new window project turn into a construction fail/nightmare. It’s incredible how quickly things can turn sideways by not hiring the right company for your job. For questions or to book a consultation contact us today.