Home improvement contractors are not all the same. It is important to prequalify the contractor you choose to replace your windows to make sure the job gets done right the first time. Doing your homework at the outset will save you hours of unnecessary stress and potentially thousands of dollars later. Some of the key things to look out for include:
- Low Bids
- Detailed, written proposal with description of work scope, product, cost, and approximate starting and ending dates.
- Description of project supervision and quality-control procedures, installation teams.
- Must have a permanent place of business, telephone number, tax id number & business license.
- Insure the contractor is financially stable.
- Proof of insurance – liability coverage & workers’ compensation certificates.
- Contractor demonstrates a commitment to professionalism with appropriate industry associations.
- Company has proven track record with client references.
Contractor is licensed or approved installer with the window manufacturer.- Check with Better Business Bureau or Department of Professional
- Strong contract & window warranties offered.
No one wants to pay more than they have to, especially when it is a significant investment like replacement windows for your home.
It cannot be stressed enough, you need to understand the nature of low bids. A low bid can look really tempting and it might be substantially lower than other bids from your professional window replacement contractors. The simple truth is, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Replacement windows are expensive because the hard cost of the materials, the trained, professional labor required in a proper installation and the insurance required to cover workers and protect contractors and homeowners from litigation.
Fly-by-Night Contractors
Many fly-by-night contractors are uninsured and work with cheap, untrained and ill-supervised laborers. They will often use your home’s windows as a training exercise to figure out how to replace windows and will return mid-job demanding for more money to finish a job that is not correct to begin with. By shopping professional, established home improvement contractors, getting multiple estimates from companies with a proven track record, and weighing your window options, you will have beautiful replacement windows, professionally installed at a fair price that adds value and comfort to your home.
When deciding on a contractor for a new windows, you would be well served by visiting with a straightforward contractor who meets the qualifications listed above. Windows on Washington carries an array of different window types and styles and can give you a factual breakdown to make the best decision for your home. Contact the experts at WoW today for more information.
