Windows serve many important functions in your home – they let in light, give you a view of the scenery, and are one of the key design features on a house. They turn your house into a home. It’s important to ask the right questions about installation, experience, and warranties. Not only are windows a significant investment in themselves, they’re a big part of your home’s resale value. You’ll want to make sure the company you choose knows what they are doing to avoid a botched or overly long installation, which can leave your house vulnerable to the elements. Before you sign anything or pay any money, ask your prospective installer these questions.
Find Out Costs Up Front
Assuming that an estimate is all inclusive and covers all the ifs, whens and buts, could be a huge oversight in budgeting. We recommend asking th company ahead of time: What are their policies for errors/mistakes for things that are beyond your control? Knowing the circumstances that are covered by their work guarantee can save headaches down the line if something doesn’t go as planned.
Surprisingly, a window installation contract can include different levels of service. Do they include trim work? Do they handle trim work at all? Again, it’s not a deal breaker if they don’t include it, but just be aware that either you’ll be paying extra or looking for a second company to finish up after they’re done with the windows themselves.
Finally, you should ask about their payment terms. Do they require payment up front? What forms of payment will they accept? Most window companies will volunteer this information, but if not, be sure to ask and save yourself some confusion.
Do Your Due Diligence
You want to know that the person doing the estimate and the crew doing the work know their stuff. Make sure to ask them “How long have you been doing this?” Ask if the person you’re talking to will be on site or if they’re just a salesman. Confirm the company’s reputation by looking up reviews on sites like Google, Yelp and even Facebook. Ask for references and – if you do – follow through. You’d be amazed at how many people neglect to actually call references. If you were referred by a neighbor, make sure to go over and take a look at their work. Ask your neighbor a lot of the same questions we’re suggesting here.
Get Details About the Process
Spend time with the salesperson and/or project manager to get as many details about the timeline as possible – to set expectations for both of you. This goes beyond an initial estimate. Ask “What happens if inclement weather delays my installation?” This is especially important to ask if your area is headed into a rainy time of year. While neither of you can control the weather, you can better understand the steps that will be taken to protect your home if rain hits in the middle of the project.
You’ll also want to confirm, “How are you going to remove my current windows?” Are they removing the whole window or are they leaving the frame? Their answer will let you know how extensive the process is and whether or not there’s a risk of damage to the surrounding paint or sheetrock that will need to be repaired.
Next, make sure that the crew will take care of your property while they are on site for the job. Ask “What will you do to protect my home and landscaping during the process?” and “Does your crew remove all debris?” Working with a crew that takes on the responsibility for cleaning up after themselves can be an important distinction.
Getting new windows installed can be a smooth process, when you ask the right questions. Being prepared with these guidelines will help you find the right installer who will take excellent care of your home and get the job done on time and on budget. If you’d like our help with your next remodeling project, you can contact us for a free estimate at (402)-894-9525 or reach out to us here.
