Top 7 Tips for Choosing a Window Contractor

Residents of North Carolina know about the importance of quality windows in their home. In the cold, wet months of winter, energy-efficient windows reduce monthly electrical costs by insulating heat and improving ambient lighting. During the long, hot days of summer, those quality windows assist the efforts of the air conditioner, and the visual appeal of replacement windows can go a long way to increase the overall value of the home. In fact, the National Association of Realtors estimates that replacement windows offer a 97% return on investment. The aesthetic, financial, and environmental benefits of replacement windows are extensive, and should be a top consideration for any home owner. With that in mind, it is of utmost importance that home owners make sure they choose a quality window contractor. For residents of Raleigh, Durham, and Cary, these top seven tips should be considered when looking for a window contractor.

Reliability – Can the contractor demonstrate their proven reliability? With a few mouse clicks, feedback and ratings on any contractor should be readily available online. Home owners should take some time to read the comments and reviews of prior customers. Furthermore, check to see if the contractor is part of an accredited standards association, such as the National Fenestration Ratings Council, or the Better Business Bureau.

Longevity – How long has the contractor been in business? Has it been six months or twenty years? In a business where contractors survive by consistently ensuring top quality work, extended longevity can be taken as a positive sign that the contractor is qualified and reputable.

Trained Staff – As a minimal expectation, any contractor performing a repair or installation job should be fully licensed. Home owners can ask to see proof that all certifications are thorough and up to date. It’s also important to ask if the contractor has worked on both newer and older homes, as each has many differences with respect to window installation.

Product – At the heart of any window replacement job is the product itself. Home owners should take every opportunity to ask questions about the windows. What are the quality comparisons between differently priced products? What are the benefits of Energy Star windows? What kind of product longevity can the home owner expect? What type of maintenance work can the home owner do to extend the life of the windows? What common problems can be expected? Today’s windows are designed with an impressive amount of technology, and home owners should do all they can to understand the product.

Follow Up – Windows are delicate products, expected to withstand the harshness of the outside world. For that reason, home owners should find out exactly what kind of warranty the contractor offers, and if they warranty the labor, as well as the product. It’s also important to ask if the contractor takes responsibility for post-replacement clean-up, and aesthetic restoration.

Q/A – A quality contractor should be able to explain the differences and benefits of all their products in terms that even the most inexperienced home owner can clearly understand.

Examples – An unconvinced home owner can ask to see examples of the contractor’s work in the local community. A reputable contractor should have an array of professional work that can be easily viewed.