Your windows are critical to the energy efficiency, security and curb appeal of your home. Perhaps you’ve noticed the warning signs of failing windows (fogginess, seal failure, difficulty to operate) or perhaps you want to improve the aesthetics of your home with new windows. Either way, the most important decision of your project will be hiring a top-rated, trustworthy Wixom window replacement contractor.
When you start researching window types and window replacement companies in Wixom, the number of options can feel overwhelming. Chances are you’re not a window replacement expert, and that’s OK!
We want you to have all of the information necessary to make a decision you feel confident about. Most window replacement companies won’t answer your questions until you call them out for a bid. We’ve served the Wixom and Southeast Michigan area since 1923 and take great pride in doing things differently.
At WindowPRO, we answer all your window replacement questions through our blog, including how much your window replacement will cost and comparisons of brands and materials. In this article, we’ll cover five questions to ask your window replacement contractor during your initial consultation and how to compare bids on your window replacement project.
What Questions should you ask your window replacement contractor?
When you’ve selected window replacement companies to come bid on your project, make sure you ask them these questions. This will help you get a feel for each company, how they do business and their assessment/recommendations for your home.
1. How Long Have You Been In Business?
Hopefully the answer to this question is at least five years. Why five? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over half of small businesses will fail in the first five years. It’s important for a contractor to have a proven track record of excellent service. Additionally, if your window replacement contractor goes out of business, enforcing parts of your warranty will prove difficult.
2. What Type Of Warranty Do You Offer?
There are two types of warranties, manufacturer and workmanship. Manufacturer warranties will vary depending on the brand of window you choose. Workmanship warranties are offered by the installer and cover any damage that occurs from improper installation. If a company is confident in their services (like we are at WindowPRO), they typically offer a lifetime warranty (of course, with some exceptions) as long as you live in the home.
3. Do You Have Any Recognition/Awards?
Manufacturers will recognize window replacement companies that have excellent customer service ratings, a history of quality craftsmanship and superior product knowledge. For example, Marvin Windows only allows its Infiniti Dealers to sell specialized products. There are only a handful of Marvin Infinity Dealers in the state of Michigan, and WindowPRO is one of them!
4. What Is My Return On Investment?
No window replacement company will be able to give you an exact number. The truth is, the return on a window replacement project will vary by home and window selections. Be wary of any company promising certain metrics.
However, a window replacement contractor should be able to outline the benefits and cost savings of new windows. Namely, the energy efficiency of your new windows compared to your old windows.
5. What Product Is Right For Me?
You don’t want a window replacement contractor that will try to push you to purchase a certain brand or material. Your window replacement contractor needs to understand your unique home and needs before recommending a solution. A great window replacement contractor should ask questions about your budget and project expectations and be able to walk you through each option and the pros and cons as it relates to your home.
Replacing your windows is a large investment, and you should make sure you understand your options and you aren’t pushed into an option!
These questions are a great way to evaluate a window replacement company. Make sure you’re taking note of your first impressions as well. If they don’t go above and beyond when they’re trying to win your business, it’s unlikely their customer service will improve after they are hired.
Lastly, do not pay a deposit before getting an agreement for services in writing. Any reputable window replacement company would not ask for a deposit or payment without giving you a proper contract.
Do Your Research!
You want to make sure that you’re choosing a Wixom window replacement contractor that is experienced, has a product offering that is a good fit for your home and, of course, has top notch customer service. Make sure you read reviews of each company and peruse their website before contacting them for an initial estimate.
Investigate these mediums before hiring a window replacement contractor:
- Reviews (Google, Better Business Bureau, Facebook, etc.)
- Social media
- The company website
Window companies that have a social media presence and a detailed website care about their appearance and making a good first impression. Plus, reviews will give you insight into past projects and their level of customer service.
How To Compare Window Replacement Bids
We recommend getting 2-3 bids on your window replacement project before choosing a contractor. This ensures you can make sure you’re getting a fair price and value.
When it comes to comparing bids, it’s important to consider these things in order to make a true “apples to apples” comparison:
- Price
- Warranty
- Company reputation/reviews
- Window brand
- Installation
There is a give and take to each of these points. The cheapest contractor may have the worst warranty. A more expensive contractor may truly offer a better value with the warranty and superior craftsmanship. Make sure that you compare all these points and don’t make a decision solely based on price or any one of these alone.
Prepping For Your Window Consultation
New windows are an investment in your home – and one that is valued by home buyers. According to the National Association of Realtors 2022 Remodeling Impact Report, replacing your windows is one of the top 5 highest cost recovery exterior projects.
To recap, we recommend asking your window contractor these five questions during your initial consultation:
1. How long have you been in business?
2. What type of warranty do you offer?
3. Do you have any recognition/awards?
4. What is my return on investment?
5. What product is right for me?
Make sure that you thoroughly research Southeast Michigan window companies before contacting your top choices for a bid. We hope these tips help you choose a trustworthy window contractor that is the best fit for your project.
Over the course of our 100+ years in business, we’ve seen many homeowners have to pay for repairs shortly after getting their new windows because of improper installation and shoddy work. Be sure to check out our blog page as you begin researching your window replacement project. We want Wixom homeowners to feel confident in their window replacement — even if you don’t end up hiring us for your project.
Next Steps – Window Replacement In Southeast Michigan
Is it time to replace your windows? At WindowPRO, we offer high quality window replacement in the Wixom and Southeast Michigan area. We’ve been serving customers since 1923 and are proud of the stellar reputation we’ve earned! If you’re ready to get started on your window replacement, we’d love to see if we’d be a good fit for your project. Contact us today to set up your free, no-hassle consultation.
