Questions to Ask a Window Contractor
Working with a window contractor and don't know where to begin? The truth about this work is that although it looks complex on the outside, many of the steps involved are exceedingly simple. That means with a little education you can often join the process and manage every aspect of the installation to your own satisfaction. It all starts with good communication.
Working with window and door contractors usually requires that you know something about the job, so you may want to avail yourself of better resources early on. From the basics of windows through installation styles and glass types, understanding precisely what your home is getting can be a source of comfort. Better still if you're working with window and door contractors who are happy to answer your questions as the process moves along.
Q. What are the benefits in replacing my old windows?
A:The main benefits in replacing the old windows in your home would be:
1. Energy Savings: Poor windows have gaps around the sashes, you could save up to 50 percent on your total monthly energy bill by replacing your old windows with new vinyl windows.
2. Function: Energy efficient windows retain the air quality in your home and will avert pollen, dust and outdoor odours from seeping into your home. Good windows will also reduce condensation levels, which will prevent damages your walls and surrounding areas.
3. Style: Your new windows will contain advanced performance features with various styles to choose form that contain many options for opening and closing positions. New Windows will also provide your home with a fresh look, increasing your curb appeal and raising the value of your property!
Q. How do I qualify a window and door contractor?
A. Locating a qualified window and door contractor can be an arduous task but the reward for perseverance is the successful completion of your project with a contractor you know and trust.
This list of ways to qualify a contractor is comprehensive and may seem overwhelming but it's your first step toward quality control of your remodel or new home construction project.
Remember: Sometimes, what seems like a great contact suddenly becomes a poor relationship. People are not always what they seem to be. The best contractors are always busy so there should be no problem visiting their projects to interview the contractor on site, observe the crew, review the quality of work, and talk to the contractor's current client.
This list will assist you in your search for a qualified contractor!
1. Ask the contractor for full documentation. This will include
2.Proof of Liability Insurance covering property damage and personal claims
3. Proof that both the contractor and the contractors' employees are bonded.
4. Proof of Worker's Compensation Insurance for employees
Q. Who will be installing my windows and doors?
A. For the better part the window and door industry tends to be a seasonal business. Early spring too late fall is generally the peak times of the window and door industry.
It is not uncommon at these times that window and door sales and marketing companies become inundated with the amount of work to be completed and to keep up with deadlines often hire outside contractors to complete the work.
In most cases these outside contractors are paid by piece work to install the windows and doors and this is usually where the problems can occur.
Q. How can I reduce the risk of getting a poor quality installation?
A. There are originations that window and door companies can pay to become a member of. These companies will usually send out an inspector to check to see if a complaint by a consumer is valid. At this point as long as the windows and doors are installed level and plumb the inspection in most cases is usually passed.
Unfortunately this does not take into consideration the aesthetic properties of the workmanship such as (poor quality product caulking, exterior metal work, and interior trim detail work)
As a consumer you have the right to a hold back of 10% of the contract for 30 days after the installation is completed. Usually you will find when working with a reputable contractor that they will make you aware of this right. As well when you sign a contract you have the right to cancel within 10 days with written notice. This is called the cooling off period.
Know your rights! The Ontario Ministry of Small Business and Consumer Services
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