Replacing your home’s windows is a great way to boost curb appeal, significantly reduce your utility costs through enhanced energy efficiency, and ensure that your home will be secured by durable, well-functioning windows for years to come. However, in order to harness these benefits and many others, it’s crucial to choose a reputable window replacement company that will supply quality products and install them properly—and with numerous companies advertising their services, it can be difficult to know where to turn.
With nearly a decade in business and many additional years in the industry, the team at the Window & Door Store understands the importance of selecting qualified contractors for all home improvement projects. We’ve compiled the following guide to help you through the process of choosing the best window replacement company for your needs.
- Start by researching the different window options available. Before you even begin looking for window replacement companies in your area, one of the first steps you might consider taking is to start thinking about the scope of your project and doing your own research on the different types of windows that may be available. For instance, determine which windows in your home you’re interested in replacing, set a budget, and start comparing different brands, styles, and energy efficiency ratings. This information can help guide you in your search for the right window replacement company and ensure that you’ll know which questions to ask as you interview competitors about their selection, pricing, and more.
- Look for window replacement companies as opposed to general contractors or handymen. While it may be tempting to just call your trusted handyman to replace your windows, the window installation process involves several steps and requires specialized expertise that many general contractors may not offer.
- Look beyond cost. While it’s important to stay within the budget you’ve established, hiring the least expensive company may not be the best option for your bottom line in the long run. As mentioned above, the window installation process requires skill and experience to be done correctly—and if windows are improperly installed, it could lead to years of problems and unnecessary expenses. For instance, you may notice drafts or water damage around the new windows, escalating utility bills, or frequent condensation between the panes. Additionally, the warranties from many window manufacturers are rendered void if the windows were not installed correctly. To avoid these costly problems, choose a window replacement company based on their overall qualifications rather than strictly on their upfront pricing.
- Check to ensure that the company is properly licensed. Any time you are having construction-related work performed on your home, it’s essential to check with your state’s contractors board to verify that the companies you are considering are current on their licensure requirements. In addition, ask to see proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance before allowing a company to begin working in your home; without these safeguards, you could potentially be held liable if a worker is injured on your property or the contractors cause damage.
- Consider how many years the company has been in business. As a general rule, companies that have been in business for at least a few years tend to be more skilled and reputable than their newer counterparts.
- Check reviews, BBB ratings, and/or seek referrals from trusted sources. Fortunately, the internet has made it easy to learn about other customers’ experiences with a company. As you search for window replacement companies in your area, be sure to read reviews on sites such as Yelp, Google, Angi (formerly Angie’s List), and the company’s own social media pages. However, while these can provide valuable insight into a company’s reputation, the best referrals often come from simply asking your trusted friends or neighbors. You may also want to check a company’s rating and accreditation with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
- Ask about warranties. While nearly all window manufacturers warranty their products, some of these warranties offer significantly better protection than others. For instance, the Window & Door Store is proud to partner with industry-leading brands, including Anlin, Pella, and ProVia, that provide best-in-business warranties. As an example, Anlin windows are covered by a double lifetime warranty that guarantees that as long as you live in your home, you will not be responsible for the cost of any repairs or replacements of properly installed and maintained products that are found to be defective. Then, when you sell your home, the warranty will be fully transferred to the new owner—which can be an attractive selling point when your home is on the market. In addition to manufacturer warranties, the window replacement company you choose should offer an installation warranty. With our team of highly trained expert installers, the Window & Door store is pleased to cover our products with a lifetime installation warranty to ensure years of worry-free enjoyment.
- Request a detailed estimate. As you are vetting window replacement companies, they should be happy to discuss with you the details of your planned project and provide a quote that includes the cost of both materials and labor, as well as an estimated timeline for when the work would begin and end.
While the process of finding the right window replacement company may seem daunting, the benefits of doing your due diligence will include peace of mind in knowing that you’ve chosen a qualified contractor and beautiful new windows that will add value to your home for years to come. At the Window & Door Store, we take pride in delivering a five-star experience for each and every customer, from the moment you set foot in our showroom until your new windows are fully installed. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate!
