Hiring the right professionals can contribute to the success of your window installation. You have two options: a window company or a general contractor.
Keep reading to learn whether it’s best to hire a general contractor or a window company for your project.
Also called a direct contractor, a general contractor manages and scouts subcontractors while being the main contact with clients. They also hire people to address the heating and air conditioning, painting, roofing and plumbing of a home improvement project. In short, they are the main contractor of a construction project.
A window contractor or company is responsible for setting up installations, repairs and removal of window treatments in both residential and commercial structures. They can either be self-employed or work from a larger company under a subcontract. You can contact these professionals if you need new double-hung, sliding or casement windows.
Whether you should hire a window company or a general contractor deepens on the level of service required to perform the job. Keep in mind that the performance and lifespan of your new windows hugely depend on the competency of the company that installed them. Even the best products are prone to early failure when not installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Brick damage is a concern when replacing aluminum windows that are embedded in the structure of a house. If this is the case, you should hire a reputable general contractor. Skilled home remodeling contractors know how to remove and replace aluminum window frames without causing severe damage to your home’s structure.
If all you need is to replace your outdated windows with new ones, hiring a window installation company is a great choice. Make sure to hire an experienced contractor who offers quality products and comprehensive warranties for your project.
Go Local and Get Referrals
If possible, hire a local contractor for your window replacement. Your friends, family and other people you know have likely worked with companies in your area. Ask them for suggestions. You can then vet your prospective company by checking the quality of their work in person.
Obtain Multiple Estimates
Experts suggest getting at least three quotes from different contractors before hiring one to install your new casement windows. Be wary of estimates that are too low or too good to be true because they probably are. Estimates should be roughly similar unless a company offers a completely different material. Besides the price, consider the experience, expertise and quality of products the companies are offering. You want to work with a contractor that specializes in your specific project.
Ask Questions
Once you have shortlisted contractors, it’s time to contact them and ask some questions. A reputable window installer will be more than happy to discuss your needs and answer any queries you may have about your project. Further, ask how long the contractors have been in business and how much experience they have with window replacement. Request for a list of references and ask them for proof of insurance, licensing and bonding.
Research About Your Prospective Contractors
Whether you are looking for professionals to replace your doors or need to have your double hung windows replaced, be sure to do some research before hiring a contractor. Check the websites of your potential window installers and see if they have uploaded pictures of their past projects. Read reviews, taking note of both the positive and negative ones. How did they resolve a conflict with a previous customer? It’s also a good idea to check their status with the Better Business Bureau.
Watch Out for Red Flags
Before hiring a company to work in your home, make sure that they have provided you with an honest estimate. Be wary of contractors asking for the entire cost of your window replacement upfront or a significant amount for the deposit. Down payments shouldn’t be over 10% of your total project cost. Also, remember that a reliable contractor will not pressure you to sign anything immediately.
For superior window replacement services, choose Renewal by Andersen® of Cincinnati. We install casements, double hung windows and more! Give us a call at (866) 609-5033 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We work with homeowners in Mason, Sharonville, Loveland and nearby communities in Ohio.
