7 Tips to Find the Best Vinyl Window Replacement Contractor

Replacement Window Installation that Gives Lasting Value

Are you dissatisfied with how your home’s aging windows look and function? Maybe they won’t open or close properly, are hard to clean, or don’t bring in enough bright light. When you’re ready for new windows, you know it. But it can seem overwhelming to figure out which windows to choose, as well as which home remodeling company to select for the work.

To make the process easier, our team of windows specialists has put together this handy checklist to consider as you make a decision that makes you happy with your home for years to come.

Know the Features You Want

Replacement windows are a great way to boost your home’s comfort, curb appeal and overall value. They can make your home brighter, more energy-efficient, and more modern-looking. They can be super easy to clean. Know what matters most to you, and look for windows that meet those needs.

Know Your Materials

Different window styles have different advantages. Many homeowners like wood windows, which are classic, yet demand intense upkeep. For fixer-uppers and rental properties, vinyl windows are cost-effective, but not as elegant as other options.

For homeowners who desire long-lasting beauty, versatility, and superior performance, vinyl windows are hard to beat. Vinyl windows offer numerous benefits and come in multiple designs and colors to fit any style architecture.

Know Your Budget

Before committing to your window installation, consider carefully the expense and options available to you. Determine what you can comfortably afford, and choose windows that will fit within that budget.

7 Tips for Choosing the Right Window Company for Your Home

Once you know your budget, the style of windows you want, and the material you’re interested in, it’s time to select a window installation company. As you interview various contractors, let these 7 tips guide you toward a decision that gives you peace of mind.

1. Consider Their Experience

While a newer company isn’t necessarily a bad choice, experience does matter in the quality of work you can expect. Rather than simply looking at price quotes, take the time to find out how long the company has been in business. Find out how many homes they have installed windows for in your area.

2. Match Contractor to Home Style

Certain windows styles can accentuate your home’s unique architecture, enhancing its appearance and curb appeal. What looks good on a Tudor or Victorian home may not blend as well on a Greek Revival or Queen Ann. Consider asking for examples of previous work the contractor has done on your type of home, so you can better visualize your options and their skills at the same time.

3. Look for a Good Reputation

How reliable is the window company you’re considering? Do they have a stellar reputation? Word of mouth matters for a reason, after all, and if the contractor is skilled and responsive, other homeowners will happily let you know.

Some ways to find out about a window installer’s reputation include:

• Check with the BBB
• Look at online reviews
• Ask neighbors with new windows that you admire

4. Insist on Honest, Open Communication

Window installation is a significant home remodeling project that will take time and coordination. The last thing you want to deal with is a company that doesn’t respond, disappears, or delays a project without notice.

5. Expect Superior Service

Is the window company you’re considering dedicated to topnotch customer service? Do they respond quickly to your questions? Will they assign a project manager to oversee your project? Great service makes the window installation process pleasant.

6. Get It in Writing

A reputable window company will give you a detailed estimate. They will also provide a written contract that spells out everything in detail.

7. Don’t Ignore Red Flags

Give yourself permission to say no if a contractor doesn’t feel like the right choice for you. Not every window installation company is a perfect fit for every homeowner, and good companies know this. Some signs a company may not be a good fit or isn’t as reputable as they claim include:

• Asking for too much upfront — A typical down payment is 10% of the total estimate for your window installation project. If you’re being asked for a large cash deposit, or expected to pay everything upfront, that’s a warning sign the contractor may not be reliable.
• Putting on the pressure — While a company may be excited about working with you, they should not make you feel pressured. If you’re feeling like you have to sign the contract immediately, without time to think about it, it’s not a good idea to proceed.
• Giving you a deal that’s too good to be true — If you get a quote that is far less than the others (or way more), that’s a signal of a problem. In general, the same size job with similar windows is going to run pretty close in price. If your budget has you concerned, it’s a better idea to revisit your window style and material choice than to go with an unusually low estimate.

Enjoying Beautiful, Valuable Windows Can Start Today

Lovely vinyl windows add so much value, curb appeal, energy efficiency and comfort to your Michigan home. And now is the perfect time to install them—while the weather is still pleasant and before the wintery cold sets in.

Our window installers at John McCarter Construction have 25 years of experience providing superior workmanship that gives homeowners lovely, long-lasting results they can count on. We don’t take shortcuts, we listen to your preferences, and we keep you up-to-date daily on your project’s progress. Contact us to get a free quote and consultation with our friendly team of pros—and get the windows of your dreams.