Windows and Doors in Chicago - Questions Answered
Below are answers to the most common questions people have when buying windows or doors. Don't see your question? Contact us and we will be sure to give you an answer.
Answers to the Most Common Window Buying Questions
1Do I need new windows?
Ask these questions
- Can you hear outside noises through your windows?
- Are your windows showing signs of wear such as warping, rotting, chipping, or stains?
- Do you feel air coming in around your window?
- If you have two panes of glass, do you see condensation or fog in between them?
- Are your windows difficult to open or close?
- Are you spending too much on energy bills?
- Can you see light between the window sash and the frame in the full-closed position?
2What type of window installs are available?
There are several types of window installation:
- Standard and Pocket Installs
- Flanged Window Installs
- Full-Frame Installs
3When buying windows, what should I avoid?
- High pressure sales techniques
- Windows you cannot afford
- Unlicensed companies
- Buying windows with no warranties
- Hiring uninsured company
4What factors determine replacement window pricing
- Quality of Windows?
- Condition of the home?
- Quality and expertise of the company furnishing and installing the windows?
- How much experience do they have?
- Are they licensed?
- Are the properly insured?
- Do they offer a warranty?
- Do they master craftsman or unskilled, transient labor?
- Are they a “real” company or a “Chuck in a truck”?
5How many estimates should I get?
You don’t have to get 10 quotes. It comes down to getting quotes from quality companies. Spend time to get to know who the people are behind the service and products.
6How much should I pay for new windows?
A common mistake is to choose the cheapest materials or going with the most common choice suggested by a sales rep in a retail store. Depending on the quality of the window and installation cost, you can expect to pay from $450 to as much as $2250.
7The most important questions you must ask a window company.
- Are you licensed?
- Do you carry general liability insurance?
- Do you carry workers’ comp insurance?
- Will you provide a written lien waiver?
- Are you a member of any industry-specific organizations?
- Will you pull the required building permits?
- Do you guarantee your work?
- What percentage of your business is repeat and referral business?
- How many projects like mine have you completed in the last year?
- How do you handle “dirty work”?
- Who will oversee the job?
- Will you provide me with written references?
8A few important things to consider before signing a contract.
- Does the company possess good communication skills?
- What is your comfort level when you think about him being in your home? Being around your family?
- Does the company have a reputation of being trustworthy?
- Is he quoting you an estimated completion date or avoiding the topic?
- Did he offer to provide you with a written contract?
- Do they offer flexibility in their approach to your project?
- Does the company’s appearance put at ease or make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up?
- How does he handle change orders?
9Make sure to go over the small details.
- Where will the debris be piled and ultimately disposed of?
- What time will work begin in the morning?
- What time will work end in the evening?
- Will work take place on weekends?
- Will workmen refrain from smoking inside and around the house?
10What should be included in the contract?
- Contractor’s names, address, license number and the name of any sales people involved in the sale of your windows.
- Approximate dates when the work will begin and end.
- A description of the work to be done. This should include a list of materials and equipment to be used.
- The price for your windows should be easy to understand.
- Anything the sales person promised should be in writing.
- A copy of all desired specifications, drawings, or blueprints (if applicable).
- A detailed list of all materials to be used.
- A schedule of payments showing the amount of each payment in dollars and cents.
- A notice to owner regarding your state’s lien laws, and the rights and responsibilities of the owner of the property.
- Information about general liability and workers comp insurance.
- Pre-work, ongoing and post-work site cleanup procedures.