Your window contractor is as important as the windows you are installing. With the threat of hurricanes and tropical storms, you don’t just need the best windows; you need the job done right with a new window and door installation. Even high-quality replacement windows need a professional to install them.
It’s a lot of pressure picking the right contractor to install or replace your windows. This is the most crucial decision as it will determine how the windows will turn out. An essential part of the hiring process is comparing the cost of impact windows and hiring a contractor you can trust. This article gives you tips when hiring the right impact window contractor.
Table of Contents
1. Check out their licenses
When hiring a contractor to work in your home, check whether you trust them to complete a job thoroughly and on time. One way to verify their legitimacy is by checking out the licenses. Ensure the contractor has a proper and valid license to complete the task in the state. Any contractor working on large projects in your home should have a valid trade license that meets local or state regulations. The license proves that the contractor has taken certain classes and passed competency tests.
You can’t naturally assume a contractor is licensed to work as it could be a grave mistake. Each state has its own set of regulations governing contractor work. You want to work with a contractor with a valid license to prove their specialization. Verify that they have a license number and the information is up-to-date. This allows you to check for legal issues or complaints while ensuring they have passed the state requirements.
2. Validate their insurance
Finding a contractor with adequate insurance is essential when hiring an impact window contractor. The right insurance protects your interest if the crew gets injured on your property. At the very least, hire contractors with liability and workers’ compensation coverage. Liability insurance protects your property and your family or friends in case the contractor causes damage or injury during the work. It also ensures that injured workers have access to compensation for lost wages and medical services.
An insured contractor is essential to protect your property during the job. Always ask for proof of insurance, such as a certificate, and call the provider to check that the policy is up-to-date and will cover your project. If the contractor doesn’t have insurance coverage, you could be on the hook for the expenses, especially if the homeowner’s policy is insufficient for these situations.
3. Determine the company’s reputation
The best way to hire the right contractor is by checking their reputation. Any reputable window contractor shall provide a wealth of references showcasing the quality of the first work. You can also independently research the company by checking third-party review sites to determine its reputation. Use customer feedback for ratings to determine a company’s reputation, which should have a good list of references and a portfolio. You can also get local referrals from your friends and neighbours to describe the company.
You can also verify their physical address to gauge whether you trust them with your money and property. A legitimate company will have somewhere you can sit and talk with experts. Take the time to know the history based on how long they have been in business.
4. Ensure they have experience
If you have a list of options for a window replacement contractor, look for one with enough experience on the market. You want to work with a contractor who has been in the industry for several years and has the experience and reputation. Experienced contractors know what to watch for and have a solid relationship with suppliers.
Determine how long they have been in business and ask about their expertise. You can also ask for references and possibly testimonies to know if they will be using subcontractors or if they are bonded. Companies that have been around longer are likelier to have a good reputation among suppliers and manufacturers.
5. Choose a contractor that offers solid warranties
Once you’ve settled on a contractor who made all the legal requirements to work on your home, the last thing is to consider whether they offer warranties. The warranty signifies a contractor can guarantee the quality of the product and the quality of their work. It also adds a layer of protection to your investment by holding the installer accountable for any mistake or product defects.
There is a difference between a manufacturer warranty and a labour warranty, though the contractor should package both in a single warranty. The labour warranty covers the installation, where the contractor agrees to come back and correct a mistake with the original installation. In most cases, you can purchase different warranties depending on what they cover and how long they last. A contractor who has been in business for several years should have solid warranties.
Bottom Line
Replacing windows in your home can be a long and confusing process that requires keenness. You need to hire the best window replacement contractor who will guarantee long-term and continued increase in house value. Consider factors like experience, reputation, license, insurance, and warranty when hiring an impact window contract. You can also visit the contractor’s physical address, get advice on something and determine their registration.