Only a Professional Should Do Your Home Window Installation
Even if you’re pretty handy around the house, home window installation is one of those projects best left to professional window installers. It’s a very precision job, and if it’s not done correctly, not only will your windows not look right, they won’t perform correctly either. They could be difficult to open and close, and could create drafts that raise your utility bills.
It will save time, money, and aggravation to find a professional window installer to do the job right the first time.
How to Choose a Window Installer
Since you don’t replace windows every day, it’s hard to know what to expect or what to ask. Here are some simple guidelines to help you narrow your choices:
Check certification: A true professional window installer will have a certification from the American Window and Door Institute (AWDI) or InstallationMasters. The guiding philosophy for AWDI is “It won’t work right if it’s not installed right™.” InstallationMasters train and certify window installers specifically to improve energy efficiency and maximize product benefits for happier, more satisfied customers.
Are They Licensed and Insured?Check to make sure your window installers have the credentials required to work in your state.If they don’t carry insurance, you could be liable for an injury on the job.
Do they Guarantee Their Work? The windows likely come with a warranty.Ask if the installer if they guarantee their work.
Get a Detailed Estimate: An estimate should be in writing and have more than a price. It should break out the costs for the actual windows (if you’re purchasing from your installer) and cost of labor based on the number of windows you have. It should also note how long the job will take.
Avoid Common Problems with Window Installation
If you hire a certified window installer, you’re unlikely to run into the problems other homeowners have experienced. Here are some things to be aware of, and discuss with your window installer:
Measure First: Insist that your installer measure each window before removing them. There’s a chance your replacement window won’t fit, and it’s better to know that before old windows are removed. Otherwise, you’ll have a hole in your house while waiting for the new window.
One Window at a Time: Even though it may be more efficient, do not allow your contractor to rip out all your old windows as the first step of the job. If an issue arises during the project, such as a problem with the new windows, or a rainstorm, you don’t want your house full of open window holes. A good window installer will remove one window and replace it before moving on to the next window.
Caulk for Painting: If you plan to paint around your windows after they’re installed, ask the window installer to use acrylic-latex caulk. If they use silicone, it can’t be painted.
Check the Work: Before you hand over the check to pay for the window installation, go around and make sure every window opens and closes properly. It’s much easier to get that fixed while the installer is there, than to schedule a repair visit. A good window installer will likely ask you to doa final check anyway.
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What to Look for When Buying Replacement Windows
Unlike many things, you do not always get what you pay for when buying replacement windows. Sometimes the most expensive windows do not perform as well as windows at half the price! So price is no indication of performance.
In a Consumer Reports independent test, a lower-end Simonton Pro-Finish Contractor home window at $260 stood up to wind and rain better than windows priced at $450 to $500.
What’s important to look for are windows that make the most sense for where you live. You don’t need windows that are hurricane-resistant if you’re not in a hurricane-prone area. You don’t need expensive argon gas insulated windows if you are not living in an area with extreme heat or cold.
Once you choose your windows, added features can significantly increase the cost. For example, impact-resistant glass can cost as much as $325 extra per window. But you don’t need that unless you’re in a hurricane zone, where you actually do have the risk of all your windows blowing out. This is not an expense you need just because you have the occasional high winds, orthe kids play baseball in the backyard.
Another feature that increases cost, but not value, is triple insulating glass. This does significantly reduce noise and improve insulation, but not enough to justify the cost.
Call Real Estate Yogi to Find Professional Window Installersin Your Area
Real Estate Yogi is nationwide network of experts in real estate, window installation and other home improvements, inspections, finance, legal, credit counseling, and more. We connect you to the experts you need. Tell us about your windows and we’ll happily connect you with licensed, experienced installers in your area. There’s never any cost or obligation to call.
