5 Things to Check for When Choosing Installers for Replacement Windows

Replacement vinyl windows are among the quality window options you can decide to settle for when considering a window replacement project. Their strong, durable, affordable, and energy efficient nature makes them a good choice, especially, if you’re after a long-term home upgrade project.

Knowing when to get replacement windows is, of course, the first crucial step in ensuring a more energy efficient home, but other factors like window quality and the installation process itself also play a vital role when it comes to the efficiency of your replacement vinyl windows.    

If properly installed, these windows can last for decades since they don’t require staining or painting. Their advanced features help minimize cracking, warping, and peeling and hence easy to maintain.

Ready to have your windows installed? Here are some of the things to look out for when choosing a window installer.

But first, consider these simple yet crucial signs of when to replace your windows.

When to Get Replacement Windows

Of course, window replacement isn’t something you can look forward to; but rather a decision that you’ll, in most cases, reach when your existing windows finally begin to wear out.

Though some of the window issues are repairable, others may call for a complete replacement option.

Below are some of the signs of when to get replacement windows for your home.

• When there are cracks or signs of rot on the window frame. The cracks may extend to the panes, so ensure you check your panes as well.
• When frost begins to build up on your windows.
• Your windows become drafty; which then allows for air leaks.

In this case, you’re more likely to notice the drafts when you stand or sit next to the windows. Extreme coldness or hotness around the window area is a sure sign that these crucial elements of your home have lost their efficiency, and that you need to replace them, or at least replace the missing glazing.

• The ever-rising energy bills could also be a sign of defective windows considering the crucial role windows play in making your home energy efficient.

In as much as you may have the best replacement vinyl windows or any other energy efficient replacement window options, you still have to ensure a sound installation process for optimized window operations.

This implies that you need to get a good window installer or an expert.

Qualities of a Good Window Installer

As a homeowner, you already know when to get replacement windows, however, the biggest challenge sets in when you have to get the right replacement window installer as most companies seem to offer similar services.

Below are some of the things to check for when choosing a good installer for your replacement vinyl windows.

1. Level of Experience

You want to work with someone who knows what he/she is doing. Therefore, consider an installer with an established reputation so as to get your project completed in a timely and efficient manner.

You can even go ahead and physically visit their previous work sites to confirm their expertise. In fact, this is a great way to ensure that you’re comfortable with whichever installer you decide to choose.

2. Qualifications and Licensing

Of course, this should be your number one factor when selecting a window contractor. Always ensure that the installer or contractor has a valid license and permit to operate even in your locality.

If possible, go online and check on their work history as well to ensure that they’re really qualified and competent enough to do the work. Find out how many similar projects they’ve successfully completed, how satisfied their clients were, and how efficient is their customer service.

You obviously want to know how fast they respond to customer issues; and so, ensure you also confirm with their previous clients.

3. Availability

Is the installer readily available? It’s always assumed that reputable and trustworthy installers aren’t always readily available with short notices since they’re highly sought after. However, you can still get one for your window project if you begin the search process early enough.

This also gives you the chance to compare between various window experts and hence able to make a rational decision.

4. Insurance Coverage

Ensure the installer has a worker’s compensation insurance with clearly outlined policies. This is to ensure you’re covered in case of any damages during the window installation process.

5. The Cost

It’s undeniable that reputable window installers will always come with high costs, but since there are so many window experts out there, the costs are bound to vary per installer.

So, consider doing your research to establish the right installer for your estimated budget.

6. The Takeaway

Seeking a reliable installer for your replacement vinyl windows? Simply consider the above factors while also making sure that the installer you choose is someone easy to work with, so as to ensure smooth operation and, of course, the successful completion of the project.

Author Bio: Dan Hatcher is the owner-operator of Zen Windows of Austin. When he’s not installing windows, Dan’s a sports enthusiast who loves the Houston Astros. In fact, he’s already counting down to opening day.