Whenever there’s an important innovation in window manufacturing, it tends to be adopted uniformly across the industry. As such, quality products simply aren’t that difficult to find, according to Alex Koustas, co-owner of ABC Window Contractors. Far more important, he says, is to work with a company that keeps its word, does good work and eschews hard-sell tactics.
It’s not uncommon for problems to arise after windows are installed—a malfunctioning lock, for example. The true test of a window installation company, says Mr. Koustas, is how it responds to requests for follow-up service, particularly after significant time has elapsed. Will they send someone out promptly—or at all?
“You need a company that sells you a real commitment, not just a good product,” says Mr. Koustas. He also recommends steering clear of companies that employ hard-sell tactics or rush you into making decisions. They should make a single comprehensive presentation of their product that includes a written estimate, and then give you your space to make an informed decision. Ask for time to do your own research—a request that most reputable companies will welcome. Don’t fall for pressure tactics warning you that you need to “act fast.”
“You might hear, ‘There’s a truck coming down next week and if they add your order to it, you get a discount.’ That’s just nonsense,” says Mr. Koustas.
In searching for a window installer, therefore, the single most important credential is reputation—which, says Mr. Koustas, usually goes hand-in-hand with longevity. If a window company has been in business for more than a decade or so, its work has probably been rewarded with good referrals and word-of-mouth. Companies with poor service and follow-up rarely last that long.
