Your windows are one of the most prominent features of your home. And just like your appliances, your plumbing, your floors, homeowners need to replace their windows from time to time.
Damaged windows don’t do homeowners any good. Drafty windows don’t only make your home uncomfortable, but they can also cause a 10% to 25% spike in your energy bills. Prevent these problems by hiring a window replacement contractor.
When it comes time to hire a team to assist you with your windows, how do you pick the right one? Here are eight key questions to ask your potential window replacement team.
1. What Are Your Qualifications?
The first question to ask your window replacement contractor is what makes them qualified to work on your home. For an established business, the answer to this question should be easy.
Notable qualities to look for in a window replacement company are:
- Organization
- Strong leadership
- Proper equipment
- Emphasis on customer satisfaction
A reputable company can tell you how long they have been in business and the types of windows they have worked on in the past. The contractors should be able to demonstrate a well-conceived plan to restore your windows. If a business is new, pay extra attention to their referrals and warranties.
2. Are You an Insured and Licensed Business?
Ensuring your contractors are licensed and insured is critical. Without proper credentials, homeowners may encounter serious problems. Checking for valid licenses allows homeowners to find a reliable and legitimate group of contractors.
Most states require contractors to have licenses. The contractors can provide proof of their license to operate so you can ensure it’s up-to-date. Viewing licenses and related credentials help homeowners determine if a business is professional, knowledgeable, and trustworthy.
While on the subject of licenses, ask the company if their credentials have ever been suspended or if the contractor has ever lost a job-related court case. The more you know, the better.
Don’t forget to inquire about insurance, too. Insurance protects homeowners and workers against problems or injures that occur on the job. Hire contractors with credible liability, workers, and property damage insurance.
If your prospective contractors do not have full insurance, consider that a red flag. They may not be a full-time contractor or are a brand business.
The company may not have insurance because they cannot afford the premiums or because they are afraid to stand behind their work. Regardless, steer clear of companies that do not carry proper business credentials.
3. What Is Your Timeline for Completing My Project?
Being able to communicate and work with your contractors is crucial for a smooth home renovation. While great things take time, contractors should be able to provide homeowners with a realistic timeline for completing their window fixtures.
Discuss the time needed for your project to determine if the company is right for your schedule. If the contractors are busy and can’t get to your home for a week, consider another business. The project’s timeline must work for both the contractors and the customer.
After receiving a timeline, hold your contractor accountable. A reputable company will be transparent and let you know if challenges occur that prevent them from sticking to the agreed-upon schedule.
4. Do You Offer a Warranty for Your Services?
Replacing windows can become costly. The price is worth the end-result, but make sure you work with a team that offers warranties to its customers.
A warranty is the contractor’s way of guaranteeing quality work. Trustworthy contractors offer warranties because they are confident in their team and know the job will get done in the best way possible.
Working with contractors with warranties protects you, too. Accidents occur, no matter how qualified the builders are. Knowing you’re protected with a warranty gives homeowners a much-needed peace of mind.
5. Do You Have Any References?
Established contractors can provide clients with customer referrals, references, and reviews. Previous customers can provide you with feedback on their experience working with the company. References allow homeowners to gauge the company’s trustworthiness, organization, and customer service.
You can also look at reviews from online sources. In fact, 84%of people claim to trust online reviews as much as word-of-mouth recommendations from friends. Use Google, Facebook, Yelp, or Angie’s List to gather feedback from past clients.
6. Do You Have Any Work Samples?
If your windows are failing, don’t hesitate to get them fixed. But before you hire a professional contractor, get an idea of the work they produce.
Ask your prospective contractors for past work samples. Contractors usually document and capture photos of the work they have completed, so it shouldn’t be hard for them to supply you with some examples of past projects.
7. What Type of Windows Would You Recommend?
Discuss your project with your contractors before you hire them. Ask what window types and brands they recommend.
Some contractors only work with certain brands, which may clash with what you have in mind. Homeowners should know what type of windows they’ll be receiving before agreeing to a contract.
8. What Is Your Estimate for Window Replaces?
Don’t forget to discuss the price when meeting with your potential contractor. Find out the company’s estimated window installation cost to determine if they are the right match for you.
Window replacement costs vary from project to project, which is why an estimate is so crucial. The contractor should factor in parts, labor time, and extra costs to give homeowners a reasonable expectation of the final bill. Discussing prices and fees may clarify which contractors fit your price range.
Your Local Window Replacement Contractor
Your home is important, so make sure the right team is working on it. Asking the right questions is the most effective way to find the best window replacement team. Learning about your contractor before the project begins protects homeowners and ensures a smooth construction process.
If you’re looking for a trustworthy window replacement contractor, we’re here to help. Our technicians are dependable and qualified to get the job done right. Contact us near Lafayette to learn more about our window replacement services.
