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How to Hire a Pro to Install Replacement Windows
Installing replacement windows
isn’t incredibly difficult, but if you’re unfamiliar with basic carpentry,
or you have a lot of windows you’d like to replace, you may decide that
hiring a pro is your best bet. If so, you’re not alone – well over 50% of
homeowners hire a professional to install their replacement windows.
Installation costs will vary according to the type of replacement window
you’re installing, the type of window you’re replacing, the method of
construction of your home, etc. A “simple” installation of a double-hung
window may only cost $40-$60 per window, while a complicated installation of
multiple adjoining windows in an older home could cost $100-$200 per window.
Shop around to find the right combination of skills and cost based on your
individual situation.
Most importantly, don’t hire the first person you stumble across to install
your replacement windows, though – follow these tips to help you find the
right professional.
Get referrals. The best way to find a good professional is to simply ask
around. Chances are many of your friends or relatives have used contractors
or carpenters – and many have horror stories they’ll be happy to share.
Others will have glowing recommendations they can make – that’s a great
place to start. You can also use the Yellow Pages or the classifieds, but if
you do you’ll need to carefully screen the professionals you call. (We’ll
look at interviewing contractors in a moment.) If you’re comfortable doing
so, ask how much the contractor charged – that will give you a sense of what
a reasonable cost is.
Try Using Home Center Services
Many home centers like Home Depot offer installation along with many of the
building materials they sell. Home Depot shows an "installed sale" price on
their replacement windows. (They show an installed price on big-ticket items
such as roofing, siding, and heating and cooling systems as well as the most
popular installed materials like flooring, doors, window treatments, water
heaters, and all built-in appliances, too.)
Home center installations are popular with homeowners who don't have the
time to find or can't find references. The contract you’ll sign with the
retailer will at least imply they stand behind the installation; find out
exactly what guarantee you’re given and how the home center will deal with a
situation – in case it happens – where the installer doesn’t install the
replacement window properly. Typically home center installation charges are
priced lower than what outside contractors will charge, but to be sure
you’re getting a good deal, ask for quotes from local contractors, too.
Interview the Contractors
Once you have a short-list of contractors, it’s time to determine which is
right for you. (If you’re using a home center contractor, they’ve done the
“interviewing” for you – if you’re using a contractor you’ve found through a
referral or an advertisement, you’ll need to check them out.)
First find out if they are licensed and insured for workers' compensation,
property damage, and personal liability. Ask a lot of questions: Do they
like working on small projects? How many projects do they typically have
going on at the same time? Do they work alone or have helpers? Also ask
about their availability during the time frame you’ll need them.
Be ready to clearly describe your project. For example, if you need to
replace a number of windows on a two-story home, let the contractor know
that. If there are unusual conditions they’ll need to work around, let them
know. If you don’t feel you can adequately describe the project, ask them to
stop by to give you an estimate. If they don’t want to meet with you, find
another contractor. If they are willing, make sure you know the type of
replacement window you’re going to install – that way they can accurately
quote a cost. They won’t expect you to have the window on hand; a
manufacturer’s brochure will give them all the information they need.
Ask for names of satisfied customers… and call them. When you do, ask if you
can see the contractor's work at their home. Many times people will be
willing to let you take a look.
Sign a Contract
Once you’ve selected a contractor you’ll need to reach agreement on a
contract. Don’t take a chance by entering a verbal agreement. Make sure the
contract thoroughly spells out all your expectations in terms of time frame,
any materials to be used, the cost of the project, etc. A home center
contract will spell out the terms in reasonable detail, but if the
contractor supplies the contract, make sure you read it thoroughly and don’t
sign it until you fully understand the terms and conditions. Once you’ve
signed a contract it’s legally binding – make sure you’re comfortable with
any agreement you make.
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