How To Find a Window Contractor For Energy Efficient Windows

Close-up of white vinyl siding showing texture

How To Find Energy Efficient Windows Contractor in Utah

Selecting a reputable window contractor is the best way to get the most out of your investment in new windows. No matter what type or brand of windows you purchase, much of their appearance and performance is tied to competent installation. Even a highly rated Energy Star window will not do the job if it is not properly sealed in place with expansion foam and caulk.

How do You Pick a Competent Window Contractor?

You should first decide what type of windows you want in your home. Some Internet searching will help you determine whether to go with a vinyl (PVC) or fiberglass window, the most popular types, or some other choice. Some further research will tell you what window specs to look for such as U-factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), Visible Transmittance (VT), air leakage, and condensation resistance.

When you start talking to contractors who work with different brands, you have the opportunity to get the input of qualified people on the window choices you are considering and learn more about which windows might be right for you.

Obtain Multiple Bids

No matter how impressed you are with the contractor, you should talk to and obtain bids from at least three contractors. The bids that you receive should be very specific and break down the material, product number, options, and labor costs that the contractor is including in the cost. The more specific the bid, the better, as this will enable you to choose among bids more easily. Many contractors offer discounts that impact the final price, but you want to make sure that you are getting the same value on a low bid as on a higher one.

When you interview the contractor, make sure to ask how long they have been in business and ask him to provide references, licenses, proof of insurance, and even pictures of jobs he has completed. You should consult reviews from Angie’s List or Yelp for more opinions on how the contractor performed.

What Are the Terms and Conditions?

Another consideration is the terms the contractor offers. You may need to make a down payment of no more than 20 to 30%, a percentage that varies by state. The industry standard is for an additional payment to be made in the midst of the work or at the end, once the job is completed to your satisfaction. Even if the contractor offers you a deal for paying the whole job upfront, do not fall prey to this, as you will lose your leverage if he does a poor job or fails to complete it.

Before signing the contract for your new windows, make sure to read the fine print about the warranty. You should expect to have at least a 10 year warranty on materials with an additional two years on labor and workmanship. Since the quality of the installation is crucial to performance, make sure that the contract you accept offers a warranty.

By doing your research, you can find a competent provider for your new windows. For the information, pricing, and confidence you need, Mountain States Windows and Siding is the window contractor of choice for customers in Utah.