When it comes time to repair your windows or get replacement windows in Ann Arbor Michigan, it’s important that you carefully research before hiring a contractor to ensure you get the highest quality work for your money. Like the old saying goes, “you get what you pay for,” don’t fall for the guy offering the lowest price. You might think you got a great deal, but you’ll end up paying more having to fix up someone’s mistakes. Plan ahead of time and give yourself a few weeks to a month to meet with prospective contractors, see samples, read reviews, and contact references.
Window Replacement Contractors in Ann Arbor Michigan and What to Look For
How to Start your Search
As you know, some of the best referrals come from word-of-mouth. Ask your neighbors, family, and friends to see if they have recommendations. If you don’t have luck with word-of-mouth referrals, the next best place to look would be the internet. Ann Arbor Michigan has groups on Facebook where you could ask other members of the community, however, make sure you do your own research as well. A quick Google search will bring up reviews of each contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan. In addition to Google, there’s a site called HomeAdvisor that has tons of reviews of local contractors. Be extra cautious if you can’t find reviews of a suggested contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan.
Setting Up at Meeting
Once you’ve found a contractor with a good reputation and positive reviews, the next step is to plan a meeting. Do a quick search on the internet to make sure they have a physical address in your area. Rather than going to their location, the contractor will likely come to your house and examine your windows, answer questions, and provide you a quote. Don’t be afraid to ask for references, as contractors with a good reputation should not be hesitant to offer them. Lastly, don’t jump at the first quote. It never hurts to get a few quotes and to shop around to find the most-trusted contractors.
Weeding Out Unfit Contractors
Even if you had a good impression after meeting with a contractor, there’s still a lot more you need to look at behind the scenes. The below qualities are crucial when it comes to making or breaking a deal:
Warranties
Installing new windows is a big cost and you don’t want to risk the financial burden of faulty materials. With that said, be certain that the contractor can install brands that come with a warranty. Many vinyl window manufacturers include lifetime warranties with their products, however, carefully look at the limitations before going with a certain brand over another.
Quality of Materials
Just because a window looks good, doesn’t mean the material it’s made of is. A good contractor should be able to explain all the parts of a window, from the frame to the locks. In addition, they should be able to bring samples to your home to see how it fits in. Ask specific questions, such as what material each part is made of – reputable contractors should be able to provide an answer.
Experience and Service
Sometimes it’s hard to read people, especially when they are trying to make a sale. Use your gut feeling and decide if the contractor genuinely cares about your needs as a homeowner or merely cares about the amount of money he or she is making. Did the contractor show up to the first meeting on time? Was the quote accurate? If the answer is “no,” to either of these questions, that is an obvious red flag.
Qualifications of the Window Contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan
No matter how big or small the company you’re contracting with is, it’s vital that you make sure they have liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Should damage be done to your home, the contractor needs to have the funds to fix it. In addition, you want to verify the contractor has the required license in your state to install windows.
Finding the right window replacement contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan is never easy but being extra cautious will pay off in the long-run. Going the extra mile to ensure your contractor is reputable, knowledgeable, and capable of providing quality work is definitely a must when it comes to remodeling.
One of the most recommended contractors we have featured here on Frame 2 Finish is A2 Home Pros. A2 Home Pros is a fully qualified home improvement contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan. Call today for an in-home consultation on your replacement windows project at 734-548-9910
