What You Should Look for in a Window Replacement Contractor
Published on Wednesday May 16, 2018By now, most of us are familiar with the language of the online dating apps like Tinder and Bumble. Swipe right if you’re interested in a potential match. Swipe left if you want to keep checking out options. If your potential match swipes right on you as well, a connection is made.
If only it were that easy to find the right window replacement contractor.
“Finding the right contractor for your job will determine the quality and timeliness of the work, and the amount of emotional and financial stress you’ll have to deal with,” writes HouseLogic.com’s Oliver Marks, a former carpenter and newspaper reporter.
When a homeowner and a window replacement contractor match up, the connection can be the beginning of a beautiful renovation.
But developing that kind of client/contractor partnership takes work—and it starts by finding the right kind of window replacement contractor in the first place.
How to Find a Window Replacement Contractor
Field the options
To help ensure that you find the right company for the job, you need to do your research.
Referrals from friends and family are one of the best ways to find a trusted window replacement contractor. You can also post a question on your Facebook page, via Twitter, or through the NextDoor app. People are often very willing to share their experiences to help others make informed decisions.
Do your research
You can confirm a brand’s licensing and credentials online in many states. Some states demand licensing, while others may require passing an exam or even certain amounts or schooling or apprenticing.
At the very least, you want to make sure that a potential contractor is registered to do business in your state and city, and carries both liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
Set up a date
Once you’ve narrowed the field down a bit, reach out and ask some more specific questions, including a physical address. You want to know that the person heading up your window replacement work is local (ie: easy to reach when there’s a problem) and not some fly-by-night, P.O. Box front.
Plus, a local window replacement contractor is going to be up to speed and familiar with local window replacement requirements. An experienced local contractor can offer valuable feedback on how different products perform in your area.
And don’t be scared to ask for, and more importantly, check references. An experienced window replacement contractor should have no problem providing you with a couple of references.
Talking to a reference can provide you with helpful information regarding their window replacement experience and provide you with valuable feedback on how the materials have held up since installation.
4 qualities to look for in a window replacement contractor
Now that you’ve chosen a potential window replacement contractor, it’s time to drill down and have a real conversation about their products, processes, and procedures. The answers that they give will tell you a lot.
Quality materials
Who has time to research all the window options available? You’re already busy vetting your window replacement contractor.
A quality window replacement contractor should be ready and willing to walk you through all the sizing options, frame materials, glass panes, opening methods, and locking systems.
They should also explain how products differ and help you find the solutions that are right for you based on your unique needs, wants, and budget.
Even better, the right window replacement contractor should bring samples to your home so that you can review the quality and aesthetics of the recommended products, and explain how different options can be combined to work best for your home.
Exceptional customer service
From the first contact to the final installation, a good window replacement contractor should have a driving need to put the customer’s needs first.
The Long brand was built on honesty, integrity, and commitment to the customer — and we live by those values every day. LONG’s family of companies holds Guildmaster status at GuildQuality.com, a distinction given to home improvement contractors whose customer recommendation rate is 90 percent or higher.
Transparency
Part of exceptional customer service is open and honest communication, from getting an accurate quote and sticking to timelines to returning all of your phone calls. If something goes wrong, a reputable contractor should be up front with you, and be willing to discuss all of your options with you.
Unlike other home improvement companies that only quote the cost of the service, Long Windows provides customers with all-inclusive prices. That way, you know exactly what you’re going to have to cover – regardless of the bumps that may occur along the way. You will not be surprised by additional bills, charges, or fees.
Solid warranties
All Long Windows customers also get a no-nonsense lifetime warranty on labor and materials. If you ever have a problem with your new windows or the window installation, Long will make the situation right because we believe in 100 percent customer satisfaction.
Ready to talk about new windows?
If it’s time to replace your windows, contact Long Windows today. We are happy to come out to your home to take a look at your existing windows and offer recommendations — while offering the customer service, product knowledge, and project customization that you need. Simply visit us online.
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