help with questions to ask contractor about new wincows

16 years ago

We are having a contractor come tomorrow to give us an estimate on the cost of replacing the windows in our house. What are some of the questions I need to ask? I have read so many horror stories about people getting liens on their house because a contractor screwed up. Do I need to see a copy of his bonded and insurance and his contractor's liscense? What kind of quesions do I need to ask about the windows themselves? I am also planning on having 2 more companies come out to give estimates. I am not looking for a low ball figure but I don't have a clue on what to ask or what to expect. Help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Angie

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Comments (6)

angie1010
Original Author
16 years ago
It should be windows. Sorry for the spelling error. Angie
ron6519
16 years ago
You should have an idea what kind of windows you want, that would be a good start. You don't memtion what windows you have. That would help the post. What is the house exterior? Brick? Vinyl siding? Stucco? These answers would be relevant to the choice you have. See if you can post a picture or two of the house exterior.
The contractor should have a license, a current insurance policy for liability, disability and Workman's comp.
Do you want to have the same windows as the rest of the block? Have you looked at your neighbors windows, inside and out, to see what you like and don't like? You didn't mention if you did any homework on this project or this will be the first window lesson(with the contractors)
Ron
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angie1010
Original Author
16 years ago
Thank you. I will post a picture tomorrow. The siding is siding, I don't know if it's vinyl. It feels like metal. I have metal windows now, cheaply done. It was built around 1967. I have looked at the windows around the neighborhood and do like what most people have done. I think everyone except me has replaced their windows. When I ask them who did their windows they either forgot or they moved in after the new windows were installed. I want windows that can be turned in such a way that I can clean them from inside the house. I want them to be white, go up and down, not sideways like some I have now. I want good quality windows. We have 15 windows, three very large, and a sliding door that we want replaced.

Do I have a right to ask the contractor that I want to see the insurance etc.?
I appreciate your help and anyone else's who would be kind enough to give me some advice.
PRO
Northeast Awning & Window Co.
16 years ago
For an initial quote, things can be a little lax with maybe just approx sizes, model, options, u-factors, window and labor warranty,references,install/haul included, etc.

For a final contract, I'd ask for the
*Exact brand, model, and options for each window in writing
*Exact sizes
*Approx lead time and install date
*Method of install, approx # days/hours to install
*Any included exterior wrapping of windows
*Any interior trim replacement required,
*Who is responsible for Staining or Painting of Interior Trim.
*Who is in charge of debris removal/cleaning, disposal of old windows
*What kind of Insulation they use to seal around window(Fiberglass or Low Expansion Foam)
If they offer a warranty on there work make sure you get it in writing on the contract! Also if they say they do not charge for Service Repairs get that in writing also.
If you go and examined the work of a specific install crew, you can also request that crew. In most cases all of the above don't end up being necessary, but it never hurts to get things in writing, just in case...
angie1010
Original Author
16 years ago
Thank you. I am going to print out both responses and make sure I cover all of that before we sign any contract. Right now I am having a contractor give me an estimate tomorrow, he works alone. Then I want to call two more companies that I know have a good rep. and get them to give me some estimates, too. The contractor that is coming just did one of my neighbors homes and it looked like he was doing a great job. Will talk to them before we decide who to go with. We have been putting this off for over a year because we are so afraid of being ripped off. Again, thank you. Angie
izzie
16 years ago
You mentionsed you were worried about a lien against house. Tell your contracter you will be asking for a lein release before the final payment is made. I am not sure if that is the correct terminology but my brother and parents always ask for this and get it before final payment is made. FYI it is a common but little known for us regular people to ask for this, they should not have a problem doing this. If it is a problem, run!!!!

help with questions to ask contractor about new wincows

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angie1010
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ron6519

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help with questions to ask contractor about new wincows

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angie1010Original Author

ron6519

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angie1010Original Author

Northeast Awning & Window Co.

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izzie

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angie1010
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angie1010
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angie1010
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