When planning for your next window and door replacement project, it is key to not only spend time deciding what type of windows and doors best meet your usage and design goals. But, to also spend time researching the contractor you plan on hiring to complete the replacement project for you. No matter how good the quality of your replacement doors and windows may be, if they are not installed correctly, it is only a matter of time before issues will begin to surface.
A quick Google search for “window installation gone wrong” or “poorly installed windows and doors” will expose you to the potential downfalls of not hiring an experienced, professional team to complete your windows and doors replacement. The question still remains, “how do I choose a windows and doors installer?” That’s where we come in! Our experts have compiled a list of 5 key tips that will help you select the best windows and doors installer for your project.
1. Reputation
Knowing the reputation of the installer you are considering hiring to complete your installation is vital. Ask for references, and post jobs you can look at. Being able to speak with past clients and even inspect some previous replacement projects will help give you an understanding of the type of work they do and how they treat their clients. Check their online reviews as well, don’t just focus on their overall rating (even though this is an indicator of satisfaction), see what people had to say about their overall experience, read the great reviews along with the negative ones so you know what to expect.
2. Rely on Your Network
Ask friends, family and even neighbours if they have a trusted windows and doors contractor that they know and have used before is a great start to your search. If there is a local installation company that has completed projects in your neighbourhood, it gives you the opportunity to inspect some of their recent work as well as ask others about their satisfaction level. If people in your trusted network are willing to refer you to a contractor they trust, this should be a good sign that you can trust them. Finding an installer from your community or that is at least familiar with your neighbourhood means that you shouldn’t have to worry about unexpected delays due to travel or being out of their usual service area.
3. Ask to See Proof of Insurance
Any reputable contractor should have insurance, this is important because the insurance will cover any unfortunate mishaps that may happen. This is not just for your own protection, but for the workers that will be on your property working. Let’s say one of the crew members gets hurt on your property or someone damages a neighbour’s home or their car. The contractor’s insurance provider will be the one to take care of those issues, without insurance, you may be the one liable for the damage or injury.
4. Warranty
There are two types of warranty you should ask about. The first is the manufacturer’s warranty, which covers the windows and doors themselves. This will kick in if there is a defect with one of the products. The second is a warranty on workmanship, this covers any issues that were caused by improper installation. The manufacturer will not cover these types of issues, so you will need the installer to back their work.
5. Experience
They say experience is the best teacher. So, look for an installation company that has been in business for some time and has seasoned installers and crew members on their team is a plus. Years in operation is the true measurement of experience, asking how many crews they have working at any given time? How many projects have they completed? and How many they have on the go at any time? As well as asking to speak with some of their senior installers should give you a sense of how much experience the team has.
When it comes to hiring anyone that will be working on your home, having a highly recommended, experienced contractor with a good reputation that covers their work with warranties and insurance is a must. But, when choosing the right company for your project, you need to also follow your gut. Hire a company you are comfortable with and have a sense of trust and report with the consultant you are dealing with.