Vetting Window Replacement Companies: 10 Things You Should Know

Is it time to replace the windows on your home? New windows are only as good as their installation. Read on to learn how to choose a window replacement company.

Vetting Window Replacement Companies: 10 Things You Should Know

Not all window replacement companies are the same. Some companies are only suppliers, some are only installers, while others offer a combination of both services. Our company, Brennan Enterprises sells windows and doors and offers installation services. 

Use the links below to learn more about each consideration:

1. How long has the company been in business?
2. Does the company specialize in window replacement?
3. How is a quality installation assured?
4. Does the company have credibility?
5. What is the customer experience like?
6. How comprehensive is the bid?
7. What type of warranties are offered?
8. How many products and brands does the company offer?
9. Will the company help you navigate the permitting process?
10. Is the company easy to contact after installation?

10 Things You Should Consider When Vetting a Window Replacement Company  

The following considerations also apply to other types of contractors. 

1. How long has the company been in business?

The longer a window replacement company has been in business, the more experience they will have. An established company will understand the industry and be up-to-date on best practices.

2. Does the company specialize in window replacement? 

You will get the best results from a company that specializes in window replacement.  A window and door replacement expert, for example, will know how to install windows that protect your home from the elements. A big box store may occasionally replace windows, but they will not have the in-depth knowledge of a company whose focus is window and door installation.  

3. How is a quality installation assured? 

You can’t beat training for ensuring quality window installation. When contacting a window replacement company, ask if their technicians are trained in the latest methods, materials, job safety and best practices. Depending on where you live the company you choose may not be required to have a license to operate↗. Make sure to look at company reviews before you sign a contract.   

4. Does the company have credibility? 

When vetting window replacement companies, always ask to see examples of past work and testimonials from satisfied customers. If possible, it best to contact past clients directly and ask them about their experience with the company. Reputable window replace companies will be happy to share a list of previous clients and their contact information. 

Thanks to websites such as Google, Yelp, Home Advisor and Next Door, it is easy to find reviews of companies online. Has the company won any industry awards? And don’t forget to check out the company’s website and social media accounts for clients feedback. 

5. What is the customer experience like?  

When you contact past clients, make the most of your opportunity to learn about customer experience with the company. Keep the following questions in mind: 

• Did the company return phone calls, emails and texts promptly?
• Did they answer questions thoroughly and willingly?
• Did they use limited-time offers or other high-pressure sales tactics?
• Did they provide progress updates on the project?
• Did they clean up the job site and dispose of old windows after completing the project?

6. How comprehensive is the bid? 

A window replacement company should offer you a transparent and comprehensive bid. You don’t want any surprise charges. Examine the bid carefully and don’t hesitate to ask questions about what is covered. While some company's only offer a price others include detailed invoices. Make sure that the bid includes the following items: 

• Materials cost
• Labor cost
• Permit fees
• Possible additional costs
• Payment schedule
• Update and progress report schedule 
• How long project will take, from start to finish
• Extra charge, if any, for hauling away the old windows

7. What type of warranties are offered? 

You want to have peace of mind about the company’s  products and workmanship, so you should ask the the company what types of warranties they offer. There are three  types of warranties: 

• Product warranty — offered by the manufacturer, covers manufacturing defects in the glass or product.  
• Installation warranty — offered by the window replacement company, covers problems that arise from workmanship during installation. 
• Service warranty — covers repair and replacement of the new window within a specified period of time. 

8. How many products and brands does the company offer? 

When vetting replacement window contractors, you want to find a company that will install the best replacement windows for your your style and needs. Some companies manufacture their own windows, while others install windows by other brands. You’ll want to ask questions about the following: 

• Frame materials
• Frame styles
• Frame shapes and colors
• Type of glass
• Hardware materials and styles
• Are windows customizable or are there fixed options?

9. Will the company help you navigate the permitting process? 

Applying for a permit can be a hassle. Let’s say you’re vetting window replacement companies in Dallas, TX. Replacement window contractors can guide you through the city’s permitting process or even do the paperwork for you. Ask if there are additional charges for this service.  

10. Is the company easy to contact after installation? 

Questions and problems can come up after an installation, even with reputable window replacement companies. When choosing a window company, find out how the company handles questions or complaints. Research complaints and disputes on review sites or the Better Business Bureau website. 

At Brennan, we specialize door and window sales and replacement. Are you vetting window replacement companies in Arlington, TX or other northern Texas cities? Contact us for a free quote.