A successful window replacement is never without a series of sound decisions. One bad call and your mistake could cost you more money, not to mention stress, during or after the project.
To avoid pitfalls, window companies advise you to avoid the following:
1. Assuming You Know How to Replace Windows
Just because you’ve installed drywall or repaired a broken pipe all by yourself in the past doesn’t mean installing windows is child’s play. Not all home improvements can be a DIY project and a window replacement is no exception. You may test your skills when only one unit is in question, but replacing all your home’s windows is no training for the layman.
2. Hiring Non-Professional Family and Friends
As mentioned, this project requires a professional window contractor, like Renewal by Andersen® of San Francisco. Even if your loved ones consider themselves handymen, they might still not be perfect for the job. Removing and installing windows is a deceivingly technical job.
Plus, every project has its own specific installation requirements, which must be followed at all costs. Otherwise, workmanship errors and window failures are all-too-possible.
3. Thinking You Won’t Go Over Budget
When budgeting for a window replacement, always set aside about some dollars for contingencies. Home improvement delays usually occur when you run out of money to deal with unexpected problems.
Seasoned window contractors use experience to anticipate the worst and provide a good estimate for the job. No one can predict the future, however, and might fail to foresee certain structural challenges. To prevent stalling your project, allot about 20% of your budget to fund work related to unpleasant surprises.
4. Underestimating the Power of Visuals
When discussing your project, it helps to provide pictures that depict your ideas. Visuals can be instrumental when you struggle to express your ideas properly. To ensure you and your contractor are on the same page, it wouldn’t hurt to collect and use images to send your message across.
5. Believing Dreams Don’t Come True
The worst thing you could tell yourself is that your dream project isn’t possible. There’s no such thing as an unrealistically ambitious window replacement. You may have to make compromises to stay within the boundaries of your budget, but there’s always a way to achieve your functional and aesthetic needs.
At Renewal by Andersen of San Francisco, we employ the best people and offer numerous custom design options to make your project a success. Call us now at (866) 609-5033 to schedule your free, in-home consultation in San Francisco at your convenience.
