Are you looking into purchasing new windows and doors for your home?
If so, then you are probably coming to the realization that this process is overwhelming and costly.
Not to mention the fact that you want to be confident in the company that you choose because you will be inviting the individuals into your home to achieve drastic physical changes.
Many homeowners will put in half the effort because this process can be so time-consuming. They’ll end up choosing the first person they interview and potentially make a huge mistake.
Prevent this problem and use our guide to buying windows and doors below to ensure that you find the best contractor for your job today.
1. What is the full name and address of the company?
If you are buying windows and doors, then you must first get the full name and address of the company.
This can help you determine their time in business and experience level.
Try to hire a contractor that is located nearby, to increase the chances of better service and quicker response time.
2. Does the company carry insurance?
Next, make sure that the company has comprehensive liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance to protect you if an accident occurs.
You can verify this by asking to see their certificates of insurance. Make sure that the contractor knows you want to see the proof before the job is started.
Uninsured contractors will be cheaper to hire because they don’t have large insurance premiums to pay, but you’ll be better protected by those who follow the standards versus those who don’t.
And insurance only helps the contractors as well, by ensuring that they can cover damages and protect themselves in case unfortunate scenarios arise.
It will be up to you to decide if it is worth the risk to hire a contractor who does not carry insurance.
3. What does the company specialize in?
There are plenty of choices out there when searching for a company to install new windows and doors.
You need to determine which companies are experts in their field, as many will offer similar product ranges.
You will also want to make sure that their expertise lines up with what you actually need for your home so that you receive exactly what you desired at the end of the installation process.
4. How long has the company been in business?
When buying windows and doors, make sure that you know the business history behind the company that you are hiring.
Try to stay away from companies that can’t provide you with a detailed history of their experience. Check the credit ratings as well to get an idea of how reliable they are.
Newer businesses may have a great future, but it is up to you to decide whether or not you hire someone new in the game. If they have the testimonials and reviews to back them up, they may be worth it.
Longer histories are generally better, but companies do have to start somewhere, which leads us to our next question…
5. Will the company provide references from previous jobs?
Ask for photos of completed work if available, to make sure that their work lines up with what you want.
Many contractors may not have photos available, however, so it is important to request a list of their most recent customers over the last 12 months.
Ask for their names and phone numbers and make sure you call a few of them to ensure the work is of the highest-quality. When you call for references, you will also want to check up on:
- What kind of work was performed
- The expectations versus reality
- Timeliness
- Credentials
- What the experience was like
- The budget
- Overall happiness
By getting a detailed account from a previous customer, you will be able to determine whether or not a contractor will fit the bill for your needs.
6. What products do you use?
When it comes to buying windows and doors, you need to find out what products the contractors use and endorse to see if they line up with your needs.
Plus, there are tons of new products coming out in the market every day. These innovations mean that windows and doors are becoming more thermally efficient, slimmer, durable, and recyclable.
Not to mention, this question will come in handy if you are looking for a unique, custom job for your home.
Custom windows and doors can increase your home value by 96.5%, but they will also be pretty hefty projects to take on. While the improvement will be great, you will still have to take on the amount of work required.
Figure out what you need and then talk to your contractors to make sure you are a good fit for each other before starting the job.
7. What happens if I need help after the installation?
Last but not least, when buying windows and doors, make sure you ask about follow up before the project gets started.
When hiring a company, you want to make sure you will be able to stay in touch with the installers. You don’t want to end up with a company that will disappear upon installation.
Find a friendly company that is easy to contact and willing to be there for aftercare services, for the chance that you have future problems.
These special companies will also be around to offer advice to maintain your windows and doors, which can especially come in handy during certain times of the year like winter.
You are going to want that high-quality service by a company that will do everything possible to help you, even after installation.
Are You Interested in Buying Windows and Doors?
If you are, then consider buying windows and doors from Stouffville Glass today.
As a family-owned business, Stouffville Glass has built a reputation for excellence for over 33 years. From supplying and a full range of support like consultation and installation, we have your needs covered.
Contact us today to see what we can do for you and your home. We will be able to answer all your questions and more while providing the level of honest service and high-quality that you deserve.
