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How-To
7 Questions to Ask Any Window Replacement Contractor
Protect your investment and your home by making an educated choice on a window dealer and contractor for your replacement project.
When you think it’s time to replace your windows or doors, choosing a reputable and knowledgeable dealer or contractor to work with you on ordering and installation can be unfamiliar territory. There are plenty of choices when it comes to finding a professional to do the job. The selection and installation of your replacement windows can be just as important as the quality of the windows themselves, and choosing the right window dealer or contractor is critical to protecting the investment you’re making in replacing the windows and doors in your home. Settling for the first advertisement you get in the mail or the cheapest price you’re quoted might leave you wishing you’d done more research.
1. How Long Have You Been in Business, and How Often Are You Selling/Installing Windows and Doors vs. Other Types of Home Renovation Products?
Longevity in business is often a good sign, and a company or a professional who has a long track record of successful installation of window and door products means they will know the industry and will be more likely to be up-to-date on best practices. Exterior renovation contractors that regularly do roofing, siding and windows, for example, will understand the importance of weathertight installation. A company that generally does kitchen remodels but also dabbles in window installation is probably not your safest option.
Though choosing windows and doors from a big box store might seem convenient, these stores don’t focus on windows and doors, can lack expertise, and might not be able to provide the specialization or customization options you want.
2. Can You Provide Testimonials or Direct Me to a Past Customer I Can Talk To?
Any reputable dealer or contractor should have a roster of happy clients. Ask to see pictures of past projects, testimonials from recent customers or even contact information for homeowners that can give a first-hand account of their experience. You may be able to consult the company’s social media pages before you contact them to get some of this information up front, and neighborhood apps like NextDoor or review sites like Yelp may also help in your initial vetting.
The Better Business Bureau and other local review sites are a good place to check if complaints have been filed or if disputes have gone unresolved.
3. What is Included in My Estimate—Are There Potential Unexpected Costs I Should Be Aware Of?
No one wants to be surprised with bills for additional services or upgrades after a job is done. Ask about everything that’s included in the estimate a company will provide, and what is additional. For example, some dealers or contractors will haul away and dispose of your existing windows at no charge, others will leave them at your home for you to discard. Some companies may add pressure through limited-time offers. If this is their tactic, consider what they are gaining by encouraging a quick sign-off on your order. Asking for full transparency, including information about the payment schedule, will help you avoid unexpected work or unplanned costs.
4. What Warranty Would I Receive on the Replacement Windows I Choose, and Does Your Company Offer Additional Warranty Coverage on Installation or Workmanship?
The dealer or contractor you choose should be well-versed in the terms of the warranties offered by any manufacturer they are recommending. They should also be able to explain the difference between a manufacturer warranty that covers the glass and any product defects, and a warranty or assurance of installation work, which can lead to significant issues unrelated to the quality or health of the window itself. Problems related to workmanship or installation are usually quickly evident, so even a short-term warranty on installation can be important.
5. Do I Need a Permit for This Work, and Will You Help Me Get It?
Securing permits and dealing with city officials can be complicated. The dealer or contractor you choose should be able to guide you in this process, or they might be able to handle this process for you directly as part of their overall project costs. Since permits can have fees, they should also be able to help you prepare and budget for this cost.
6. If I'm Not Happy with the Installation or I Have Questions After the Product Has Been Installed, How Will You Handle My Inquiry?
If you’re working with a reputable dealer or contractor, they’ll likely have a process in place to manage questions or complaints during or after a job. When working with a smaller company, it will be important to know that they will stand behind their work and that they will be easy to reach should issues arise even months after installation. Make sure you understand the types of issues that would be the dealer or contractor’s responsibility to resolve (installation-related) versus where you might contact the manufacturer about their product warranty.
7. What Type of Marvin Replacement Expert Am I Looking For?
Certified Installing Retailers (CIR) guide you through every step of replacing your existing windows and doors. They sell the full portfolio of Marvin products and participate in continuing education with Marvin to ensure you receive the latest options and technology that Marvin has to offer. From evaluating your current windows and doors to choosing the right Marvin products and completing your project with proper installation, our Certified Installing Retailers have you covered.
Certified Installing Retailers are a great resource when you want a start-to-finish solution for replacing your existing windows and doors. Visit their showroom to see product displays and speak with knowledgeable Marvin experts who can help with any project.
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