New Homeowner? What to Ask Before Choosing a Replacement Window Contractor

Does your home need new windows? If you’re a first-time homeowner, take a look at what you need to know before you hire a window service contractor.

What Types of Windows Do You Want to Install?

Not all replacement windows are equal. Before you hire a replacement window contractor, you need to decide what type of windows you need. As a first-time homeowner, you may not have extensive experience with window styles. If you’re not sure how the type of window you want impacts who installs it, consider:

• Custom options. Do you have oddly shaped window openings or do you want completely custom glass? If your window project is specialized, you need a glass contractor and installer who can create the look you want.
• Specific brands. Do you have a preferred brand? Homeowners who a have a specific preference or want to match existing windows to precise replacements need to find a contractor who is authorized to sell and install the brand.
• Availability. Whether you want a slider, casement, or other type of window, make sure your would-be contractor stocks the general category of window. If they don’t routinely carry the style or type of window you want, you may have to wait for it to be in stock.
• Energy efficiency. If you want to replace your new home’s old drafty windows with energy efficient models, make sure the contractor specializes in and sells these potentially utility price-lowering styles or types of glass.

Now that you’ve decided what type of windows you want and know how your choices impact the contractor selection process, it’s time to ask questions about the installation process.

Can the Contractor Correctly Install Your Windows?

Failure to properly install replacement windows can result in more than just damage to the glass. An inexperienced or unprofessional contractor can cause issues, including:

• Water damage. Gaps between the seal and the frame or mismatches in fit can let rainwater into your home. This can result in extensive moisture damage to the surrounding area (plaster or drywall) as well as your furniture and other belongings.
• Drafts and energy loss. An ineffective seal created by poor installation will let the outside air in. This leads to drafts and potentially expensive energy loss-related utility bills.
• Unwanted appearance. Your home’s windows are more than functional. The panes of glass and frames around them also serve an aesthetic purpose. Poor installation can look messy and detract from your home’s curb appeal.

How do you know if your would-be window contractor is an installation expert? Experience and expertise are top predictors of a quality job.

Does the Contractor Have the Right Amount of Expertise?

As a first-time homeowner you may not know what to look for in terms of expertise and experience. While years as a service provider demonstrate a high-level of experience, you may wonder if the decades-old contracting company has knowledge of new products or techniques.

If you’re not sure how to assess the contractor’s expertise, you’ll want to know:

• The number of consistent operational years. Did the window company recently open or do they have decades of experience to back their expertise up? Make sure the contractor hasn’t opened, closed, and opened again in a different neighborhood. This indicates service/quality issues.
• The technicians’ backgrounds. A company with half a century of experience could employ brand-new technicians. Ask how many years of experience and what kind of expertise the actual installers have.
• The amount of continuing education the installers have. Do the installers know about the latest types of windows and techniques?

Along with answers from the contractor, you also need to factor in reviews from real customers. Talk to local family and friends or ask your potential contractor pick for references.

Are you ready to beautify your new home with replacement windows? Contact Arch Design Window & Door Co. for more information.