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Finding a Quality Window Replacement Company
by Gabby Hyman
Finding a top-notch window replacement company takes a little work. It's important that your window installers have experience in providing accurate estimates along with a detailed knowledge about the specific replacement windows you've selected. Doing some research ahead of time can spare you financial heartache later on.
Before inking any contract with a window company, you'll need to know as much as you can about the company, its service and support policies, the window products in which they specialize, its installation procedure and timeline, and its consumer record. You may want to contact the local office of the Better Business Bureau to see if any claims have been filed against a prospective window installer.
Getting a Detailed Window Estimate
Most window companies will provide a cost-free, written estimate for any consumer. If a company wants to charge for the estimate or presents a high-pressure sales pitch, they're probably not for you. Be sure to ask for local references, former customers that you can call to see how well the work was done, if it was completed on time and within the estimated budget, and how the job is holding up over time. Ask references how disputes were handled. If adjustments were required, how did the company measure up?
At the time you receive a window estimate, be sure to ask about warranties. The best guarantees are lifetime warranties, but even these are meaningless if the company closes shop. That's why you need to research their track record. Wrap up your negotiations by asking for a statement of work, a contract that specifies precisely what will be done, the materials that will be used, and the timeline.
Double pane, Energy Star windows can be fitted with heat-mirror film. The film characteristics vary by climate type. In cold weather, the film helps insulate the home and keeps heating costs down. Hot-weather film reflects heat in scorching summer temperatures.
Ask About Licensing and Insurance
If a window installer is squeamish about providing a contractor's license number and proof of insurance, you may want to keep looking. While both are not guarantees of workmanship, they are indicators that you have legal protection in the event of property damage and worker injury. Always make sure that your window company has an office or physical address--not just a magnetic plate attached to a pickup truck.
About the Author
Gabby Hyman has created online strategies and written content for Fortune 500 companies including eToys, GoTo.com, Siebel Systems, Microsoft Encarta, Avaya, and Nissan UK.
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