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How to Find the Right Window Replacement Company for You

Top10.com Staff
Window Replacement
From energy-efficiency to water penetration damage or that pesky (re seriously dangerous and needs to be dealt with immediately) problem of lead-based paint in pre-1960's homes, there are a lot of reasons to replace your windows. Whatever the reasoning, the time has come to make a choice.

But how do you choose the best window replacement company for your situation? From budget to spatial requirements and design elements, there are so many things to take into consideration. The good news is that we have broken down the work for you.

Here are some pro tips on choosing the best window installation services to get the job done:

Tip #1: Work Out Your Budget

Before you start researching your options, you have to know what you can afford to pay. It's nice to discuss options like expansive bay windows, triple-glazed paneling, and impressive filigree framing. But if those aren't in your budget, then it's just a waste of your time.

Sit down and work out your budget. Start by figuring out how much window replacements cost. Some of the factors that will influence overall project cost include the type of window you are replacing, how many windows you’re replacing, the type of glass paneling you want, level of difficulty of the project, and the cost of labor as per the window replacement company’s policies.

You should also look at your own finances to see how much of a budget you can afford. If you aren’t sure what you can afford, here are some tips. Maybe you just got a hefty tax return. Or maybe you got a bonus from work. A rainy day fund dedicated to home improvements, a gift from a dotting old auntie, or unexpected lottery winnings are all good options for updating your window fixtures. Money dedicated to groceries, the electric bill, or your mortgage are not.

Once you have all the numbers down on paper, you can clearly see what your options are. Then, you’re ready to move onto the next step.

Tip #2: Research What the Companies Offer

Window replacement and window installation is a wide industry, so while you would assume that any window replacement company can assist you in your upgrade, this is not always the case. Some services deal exclusively with one type of window replacement. Others deal with a broader range, but not all types of installations. Bottom line, find out exactly what the window replacement company can and cannot do. Make sure they both sell the types of windows and panels you're looking for and that they're qualified to do the work you require of them.

Tip #3: Verify the Installation Policies

This is basically a more involved step than the one before. While the company you’re researching may offer the service you want, there may be certain caveats that increase the price or limit your options. For this reason, you’ll want to have everything spelled out clearly.

It’s a good idea to get a copy of a contract or terms of service before signing on the dotted line. If you have a lawyer brother-in-law or someone who’s good with contracts, it’s not a bad idea to have them look it over as well.

Pay attention to exactly what is being included in the service. Are you getting removal services? Does the company clean up after themselves? Are there specific brands or types of materials that you’ll have to pay extra for?

Finally, make sure to clarify any warranty or guarantee information, as well as any limiting conditions that would nullify your warranty. A 90-day guarantee on workmanship is an attractive offer. But if that’s tied to a bunch of limitations, you’ll probably never see the benefits of that statement.

Tip #4: Make Sure Companies Have Certifications and Licenses

Anyone can put a sign on their truck and call themselves a window replacement company. But you don’t want to trust just anyone with this important home improvement project. Make sure the companies you are researching have proper certification and licensing in your area. Certifications can come from prominent organizations like American Window and Door Institute or InstallationMasters.

You can also look for Better Business Bureau ratings. The higher the rating, the more reputable the service. BBB also has reviews on the website, so be sure to read through those for more feedback. Customer testimonials from places like TrustPilot are helpful in this arena, as well. While you can't take every review at face value (often illegitimate services will fabricate reviews to make themselves look better), if there is a generally positive vibe (with a few negative reviews sprinkled in), then you are probably dealing with something that's legit.

Choosing the Best Window Replacement Company is Easier Than You Think

With the advent of the internet, comparison shopping has never been easier. Now you can hop online, and within moments, have a range of price quotes from multiple window replacement companies in your area. This is a powerful tool you can use to your advantage for finding the most affordable services for you.

Looking for more information? Check out our in-depth reviews of the top replacement window companies to learn all the pros and cons in order to make a more informed decision.

Top10.com Staff
Top10.com's editorial staff is a professional team of editors and writers with dozens of years of experience covering consumer, financial and business products and services.