New windows and doors can significantly increase the value of your home. As much as 90% of the total job cost can be regained over the years by replacing your old units with new and improved ones. There is a catch, though—to fully provide their outstanding benefits, new windows and doors need to be installed professionally.
Much as it is possible for you to install your windows and doors on your own, when not done right, you might end paying a lot more to have the resulting issues fixed. Great care should be taken during the installation process, and the experts know that, which helps identify how well your new windows and doors will remain functional for years down the road. On top of enjoying a fantastic work the first time around, professional installation can also help you save plenty of time and money. With that in mind, it’s crucial to find the right window and door company for your next project. Read on to learn about some of the things you should look for in a potential contractor.
Requirement #1: Years of Experience
Installing new windows and doors can be seen as a major investment. Once you’ve made the decision to tackle this project, the next step is to consider who will handle the job for you. To make sure your investment is protected and you get the most out of your purchase, hiring an experienced contractor is the smartest decision you can make.
Before actually signing a contract, take the time to do a background check on your contractor. Ask them how long they have been in service for homeowners across your area and how many homes have they worked on to date. Window and door contractors who have plenty of years under their belt are the best option, especially if you’re replacing your home’s windows and doors for the first time. This is primarily because such contractors have tackled many similar projects before and tend to know how to ensure a smooth-running job that fits your schedule and budget. In general, try to veer away from contractors who are unfamiliar with or do not specialize on the job at hand. Keep in mind that experience should take priority in most cases.
Requirement #2: Quality Materials
Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make in your lifetime, and the last thing you want is having low-quality windows and doors installed in it. Many amateur contractors and DIY hardware shops today offer one-size-fits-all replacement doors and windows, which will require modifications to your wall openings to make them fit. That shouldn’t be the case.
To prevent installing subpar units in your home, be sure to work only with trusted contractors who offer industry-leading products and materials. Do your homework and research on different local companies who carry top notch products from some of the leading brands, such as Renewal by Andersen®.
Renewal by Andersen products, for instance, have strong and energy-efficient materials, allowing you to reinforce your home’s protection against the weather, all while helping reduce your energy consumption for bigger savings. Both door and window products also come in an impressive selection of colors, styles, and grilles that you can customize to effectively complement your existing decor. They can be made into different shapes and sizes to suit your home’s requirements. Some of the top innovations created by Renewal by Andersen are the Fibrex® window frame material and High-Performance™ Low-E4 glass. Together, these materials can do excellent wonders for your home.
Requirement #3: Strong Warranties
For many homeowners, warranties for their new doors and windows can be a deal breaker. These components are, after all, exposed to the weather, so homeowners need a guarantee that the doors and windows will perform as intended. The truth is, all window companies are willing to put their best foot forward in marketing their products, but the only way to know if they stand behind their claims is through the warranties they offer. The scope and coverage period of the warranties speak of the company’s confidence in their work and product.
To get the best value for your money, be sure to entrust your needs to a window and door contractor who offers extended warranties for both their products and workmanship. These will help protect your rights as a consumer and keep you safe from additional expenses when an unexpected issue arises due to a material defect or installation issue. It’s also helpful to understand how warranty complaints are processed and handled within the company you choose.
Getting replacement windows and doors for your home is easy if you carefully move through the process. By investing the time to perform a few simple steps before kicking off your project, you can ensure a successfully executed remodeling job. Find the right contractor and see for yourself how your new windows and doors can increase your home’s overall performance and value.
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Author Bio:
Kathryn Ruth is the marketing head for Renewal by Andersen® of Seattle. With over a decade of experience in the replacement window industry, she has first-hand experience and knowledge that she shares with clients and homeowners through the company blog. Check it out for updates from Kat!
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