Lining up replacement window estimates and project bids is hands down the best way to find the best replacement windows at the best possible price. So how does this process work? Let’s drill down and discover how to get quality bids from top local dealers and companies.
Bottom Line: Even with all the technological advances, getting quality price quotes can still be a real challenge. So let’s go through step-by-step and figure out how to get great quotes from great companies.
(Always collect 3 to 4 additional bids)
Replacement Window Estimates And Options
First things first: find quality local window companies (often called dealers) who operate in your zip code. Using a search engine like Google, do a search for “[company name] windows in [your city and state]” and hit search. So, if you live in Cleveland, Ohio, you would search for “soft-lite windows in Cleveland Ohio.”
This (should) bring up local companies that carry Soft-Lite windows. Then, simply call up the company and ask them to come out and give you a free window estimate. Note: we have a list of quality windows and patio doors that we will gladly provide you if you email us at bill@replacementwindowsconnect.com. This is a free service four our users and our list that costs you nothing.
Website Based Window Estimates
We also offer a simple way to connect with quality local window companies that takes about a minute to complete. Incidentally, by filling out our replacement window estimates form, you allow us to generate revenue that in turns allows us to provide free (and unbiased) consumer information (so we do appreciate this).
Please note: there are hundreds of websites that include a form that connects you with local window estimates and bids. However, there are very few that will take part in this process from start to end – which we do. Therefore, we will look at your bids and help you find the best quote at the best price from the best window company. Additionally, we are beholden to no window company and therefore we can help you with unbiased advice and over 50 years of combined experience in the replacement window industry. Use the link in the previous paragraph to fill out our online form.
How To Judge Local Companies
We often say that the windows and/or patio doors themselves are 50% of the job, and the installation is the other 50%. To this end, just because a company gives you a low bid, doesn’t mean they’ll provide you with quality installation. So how do you insure that they do?
First, you’ll have to do a bit of research. Luckily, this step doesn’t take too much time to accomplish. Do a google search for the company’s name and aggregating the company ratings from all of the major review sites. These include sites like Google, Angi, Replacement Windows Reviews, Yelp, Replacement Windows Connect (this site), etc. The aggregate or average rating from a company ought to be an accurate picture of what you can expect for your project. And while there are always outliers, this honestly is the best way to judge a window company’s proficiency.
Do this for all the quality companies in your area, collect four or five bids, and then send us the summaries of the bids. We will help you compare the bids and rank the bids in order based on long term value. Additionally, we often have some incite into the overall quality you can expect from many replacement window and door companies in the United States.
Additional Options For Replacement Window Estimates
The following are additional options you may want to take in order to get estimates on your next window and patio door project.
Ask Friends, Neighbors And Co-Workers
This can yield useful information since someone’s prior experience with a contractor or handyman carries real-world weight. Word-of-mouth tends to be the lifeblood of independent contractors since advertising, either TV, radio or newspaper, tends to be expensive. Here are 10 interview questions to ask window contractors.
Drive Around Town
See where new homes are being built. Builders may be willing to take on a new job and more than willing to provide replacement window estimates. Specifically, the work in progress can provide an example of their skill. Given the current economy, you can also contact some large builders to see if they’d be interested in a replacement window project.
Check With The Local Home Improvement Stores
If price is high on your list, check with Lowes, Sears, and Home Depot. They are, in truth, local contractors and well-experienced in preparing replacement window estimates. They, or an associated local contractor they hire, do the actual work and guarantee good and documented work from start to finish. They’re well-established and there for you if issues arise in the future. Their replacement window prices might be somewhat higher than those of independent contractors considering name recognition and overhead.
Check Online
Request information on home improvement websites to find local window contractors. Many sites request entering your zip code, which greatly narrows the search. This is also a great place to start when looking for replacement window estimates.
Telephone Book
Use your telephone book to locate independent contractors in your area. While you can get names, numbers, and attractive ads, solid information isn’t furnished. If you find an interesting entry due to physical proximity or a name that produces a positive reaction, your local Better Business Bureau can possibly provide specific data. The BBB itself provides a listing of certified contractors in your area.
A Final Word On Replacement Window Estimates
It’s highly recommended that you get at least three replacement window estimates and analyze them closely. You have the right to request window contractor references, recommendations from satisfied customers, examples of work, and guarantees in writing.
When dealing with salespeople, dire warnings about upcoming price increases or jargon are usually ploys to get you to sign without giving the project a lot of serious thought. It can be useful to learn common windows replacement terms. These terms can help you understand what a salesperson or contractor is talking about.
Related Topics
Window Replacement Cost Estimator
Best Replacement Windows Consumer Reports
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