4 Steps To Hiring Quality Window Contractors

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Hiring Quality Window Contractors

Finding and hiring quality contractors can be both frustrating and daunting. We have put together an easy four step guide to help you find the best contractors and installers.

Set a Budget and Stay With It

It is important that you have a budget and that you stick to it for a number of reasons. The first reason is that it gives you negotiating power, removing any emotion from your decision. If you know how much you can spend, you will not be tempted to accept a higher estimate. The second reason is that by going over your set budget, you end up sacrificing on something else, which can place a strain on your home finances. In the event that you are unable to find exactly what you are looking for at the price you have set, speaking to the contractors about other options may be a solution. Often you can use similar products or different design approaches and still achieve the desired look you were hoping for.

Take a Few Days After Receiving All Your Quotes

Get multiple bids and then take some time to let them marinate. There is no reason that you need to rush when making your decision on who to hire for your replacement windows. Soak up the information in the project bids for a few days - this enables you to be objective. At some point, sit down and compare them with each other and fully understand what each one offers at what price. It will also give you the additional time you need to follow the next step.

Check Referrals and Research Each Company

It is essential that you vet each window company who provided quotes. All contractors should have valid contractor's license for the state where you live. They should also be bonded - this isn't necessary but is certainly recommended should something go wrong. Find out if they are registered members of BBB and check that website for any complaints that may have been added by customers in the past. Always try and get at least two or three referral numbers and be sure to call, this is an opportunity to ask past customers how they rate their experience with the company. Try and get a referral from four or five years ago to see how the installation has held up.

Work Order Or Contract

Every contract should outline a detailed plan on how the project will be carried out and the costs for the windows themselves and the installation or labor. The best way to manage the payments is to break them down for each stage of the project. A good way to handle the payments is to break them into thirds. Pay a third of the price up front, pay another third once at the halfway point and then pay the final third once the project is completed. Bear in mind that if you have a small project it may only take the contractor a day or two to complete the job, so this would not apply for these jobs, though you can manage these smaller jobs by paying on completion.