5 Tips for Choosing the Right Contractor

Published February 3, 2016
Construction - General contractor
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Lake Washington Windows

Whether it’s replacing your windows or installing your door, you want the job to be done correctly. That is why hiring the right contractor is the surest way to guarantee a job well done. However, finding the right contactor can be tricky. In order to avoid problems, follow these 5 helpful tips!

  1. Establish Your Needs

Before hiring any contractor, it’s important to do your research. Decide in advance which window, door, etc. you want installed or replaced. You will find many contractors specialize in one type of door or window. However, some contractors can install any window and/or door of your choosing. If you do not know what you want installed or replaced, you should call 2 or 3 window contractors to discuss your options.

  1. Collect 2 to 3 Detailed Bids

Bids are important. When you know nothing about the severity of the project, it pays to get multiple bids.  Some folks choose to get 5 or 6 bids, others a couple.  As a general rule of thumb 3 bids are good.  Any more than 3 bids and you begin to forget the specifics of each bidder and lose their value; moreover, they become a blurred mass.  Some contractors charge extremely high rates. On the contrary, some rates are significantly lower. Decide what is most important to you. Is it maximum quality? What about value or customer satisfaction? Sometimes it pays to choose the company that can provide the highest value and level of customer satisfaction you need.

Reviews.

Let the internet be your guide. Review sites such as BBB.org, Yelp, Angies List or Porch.com that will make finding the right contractor easier than ever. In particular, search for past complaints and how that contractor responded to the complaint.  In the world of construction, it is impossible to find perfect reviews on any company, as there is no such thing as a perfect contractor.  If a contractor has a perfect score across all review sites, then beware!  Look for contractors who have a consistently good review record, then search out those not so hot reviews and pay attention to how that contractor dealt with the complaint.  Did they respond professionally to the complaint?  Did they come up with a solution to the complaint?  Were they reaching out to the customer to address the issue?  Did they show genuine concern for the customer?  Were they defensive in their responses?  I’m just as interested in how the contractor responds to adversity as much as their good scores.

  1. Check with the Suppliers or Manufacturers

Suppliers or manufacturers are usually first to know if the contractor is in good standing.   Ask the contractor who they normally buy materials from, and then ask if it would be okay to speak directly with their supplier. The right contractor will be open to the idea, since they will have nothing to hide.  Manufacturers often times have reviews of their certified contractors on their own website.  Check out those reviews!  They will give you an idea of the type of contractor you’ll be dealing with.

  1. Read the Fine Print

If any problems should arise in a year or two, you want to make sure you are covered. That’s why reading the fine print is extremely important. It’s small for a reason, but break the odds and read it. For example, typically the standard warranty for windows is at least 10 years.  Also, check if the contractor supplies a workmanship warranty that covers the actual installation.

About Lake Washington Windows & Doors

Lake Washington Windows & Doors installs energy-efficient replacement windows, doors and siding for homes, apartments or businesses in the Greater Seattle area, including Bellevue, Issaquah, Kent, Renton, Sammamish, Woodinville and more. Our knowledgeable team has more than 100 combined years of window, door, and siding experience, so you can rest assured that you will have a professional, efficient and friendly experience. Contact us online to request an appointment or inquire about our products and services.

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Written by Lake Washington Windows

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