April denotes the unofficial start of spring, and with warmer temperatures driving you outside more often, you might begin to feel ready to make that big home improvement investment by replacing your windows. Purchasing new windows is a major home improvement project that can bring along plenty of benefits for your property value and general happiness with your home. However, before you pull the trigger on such a major purchase, be sure that you are choosing the the most experienced windows specialist for your money.
Here are a few questions that you should consider asking before you sign a contract.
Do you have a showroom?
Most business can be done online nowadays, but in the case of windows and other home improvement projects, being able to see different options for yourself can make a major difference in your decision. Ask if there is a showroom available and if someone can meet you to show different types of windows. You’ll be able to see and feel the difference between cheaper options and those with more quality, which can make you feel better about your investment.
How long have you served the Chicagoland area?
For anyone who has ever worked with a contractor only to find them all but disappeared a few months later, you immediately learn the importance of working with someone who will be there for years to come. Ask how long the company has been there, as well as how long they plan to stay. Aim to work with someone who has been in the Chicagoland area for decades. Further, inquire if the business has been known by different names; this is a sneaky way for businesses to close and reopen without customers knowing.
What would you recommend for our situation?
Choices for windows can be overwhelming, to say the least. While you can certainly do your due diligence by researching options online ahead of time, there is a lot to be said for the opinion of someone who has worked with local homes for 80 years. Give information about your home, situation, and lifestyle to your representative and see what they have to say to narrow your options to a more manageable choice.
What do you think of my budget?
Never work with a business that refuses to take your budget into consideration. While not everyone can offer you a deal, most reputable businesses with experts can give you suggestions on how to get quality windows for the budget you have, even if that means staggering installation or making a plan to replace every window in a three year timeframe.
Do you have references?
Ask the business for names and phone numbers of recent clients they have worked with. Even a quick call or email can give you the reassurance you need to invest with the business you are looking at.
Purchasing windows is a big investment – be sure you are doing it with a company who you can trust and that is a true expert in the field