Replacement windows are one of the best ways to add charm and value to your home. It’s a significant investment that will last you for many years to come. However, choosing the right window replacement company can be confusing. Some have catchy television or radio ads with slick salesmen while others rely on snazzy websites to sell their services.
Don’t be swayed by hard-sells or clever tactics. Spend your money with the company that offers you the winning combination of well-constructed windows and excellent customer service. These are some things to keep in mind when you’re in the market for replacement windows.
5 Key Considerations When Choosing a Window Company:
What’s their online reputation?
Before you decide on a window contractor, look at their online reputation.
A quick Google search can be very revealing! Read recent reviews and look for comments that answer the following questions:
- Did the window company do what they promised?
- Did their installer finish the job on time?
- Was the window installation professional and well-done?
- Did the work come in on budget?
Answering these questions will give you a sense of whether homeowners were happy with the service provided by the company and the overall appearance of the windows themselves. If you find a window company with rave reviews, they have built an excellent reputation and you can move forward. On the other hand, take heed of any red flags that are waving at you.
Do your neighbors know the window company?
Check in with any neighbors or friends who have recently purchased replacement windows. The chances are great that they’ll be more that happy to discuss their beautiful new windows with you!
Ask them any specific questions you might have.
- Did they feel they were treated with respect?
- Are they happy with the quality of the windows?
- Did their windows have a warranty?
- Did the installer arrive on-time, finish when promised, and install the windows to their satisfaction?
- Why did they ultimately choose this window company?
Treat neighbors and friends as valuable resources. They likely shopped around to several companies just like you are!
What kind of warranty does the company offer?
Offering a warranty to the consumer is an excellent sign! It shows that the window company is confident enough in their product to make good on any defects in their product.
Here are the kinds of warranties you should know about.
Manufacturer’s Warranty
This type of warranty guarantees the quality of the actual window. You should look at three things in a Manufacturer’s Warranty for windows:
- Parts – Which window parts are covered by the warranty?
- Term/Length of Warranty – How many years does the manufacturer guarantee the windows?
- Transfer of Warranty—If you sell your home, does the warranty transfer to the new homeowner? (Hint: This can be a point in your favor as a home seller!)
Installation Warranty
This type of warranty guarantees the quality of the installation service, not the physical windows. If you experience any defect in the installation, will the company send an installer to correct the problem? If you’re not a DIY kind of person, this is valuable information!
Does the window company insure their installer or contractor?
The time to ask this question is when you’re shopping. Don’t wait to find this out after an accident happens or you could be left with some serious expenses!
A reputable window company will protect their customers by ensuring that their installers or contractors carry liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. This gets you off the hook just in case there is an accident during your window installation.
How does the window company schedule their installations?
Finally, ask the window company a couple of last questions. First, once you purchase your windows, how long will it take them to get them delivered and installed. During peak seasons, this can vary depending on their workload. You don’t want to be disappointed, so it’s best to discuss this upfront.
Second, how long will your installation take once the crew arrives? Is your installation a half-day or three days of work? You might need this information to plan for pets to be boarded or for your own convenience.
Windows are an exciting purchase. With careful thought and these 6 key considerations, you can find the best window company for your replacement windows.
Author Bio: Matt Rotondi is the owner of Zen Windows Boston. Matt is dedicated to the principle of educating homeowners on windows rather than selling them windows. He is a Boston area native and life-long resident. He loves to spend time with his wife and children when he’s not working.
