Home Improvement Contractor - Licensed Contractors
Window Contractors Knowledge Base
Do you need a contractors license to start a window company in California? Ok so, my family owns window companies in Illinois. Window replacement, siding, roofs, doors, etc. Basically they have relationships with factories that they buy their products from and have 2 teams of installers who actuallly install the products. I live in southern california and wanted to open a division of the family business here. I have been doing a little research and I am finding that most window company owners have contractors license. Is this required? Is there a way around it if my installers are licensed? Anyone with knowledge in this area would be appreciated thanks! Just to clarify my question: Does the retail portion of sales need a contractors license? OBVIOUSLY the actual installers doing the work would be licensed.
can i get 2 carpentry contractors to find a soulution to a problem which is a leaking window frame in a house? i need to find 1 soulution from 2 contractors on how to fix a leaking window frame
Question for window/siding/exterior contractors...? Hi! I need my old windows replaced...they are wood, and the wood in the corners of the area between the storm and the interior window is rotten. This has resulted in rotting in some of the studs behind the drywall, as moisture has found its way in there. Would window/siding contractors have the know how and the supplies to replace the rotting wood and the drywall in addition to replacing the windows, or is this more a job for a general contractor? I want to get some estimates, but I don't want to waste my time or any contractors' time. (Don't know if this makes a difference, but I'm in the NW burbs of Chicago.)
GLASS CONTRACTORS - How much to replace a single pane glass about 2ft x 3ft in a window? I got quotes from several places, lowest bid was $85. It's from a guy who works at a glass company, this is his special price "just for me" since I contacted him directly. He said normally the cost would be $145 if I went through the company. All other bids were over $100, this guy was the lowest at $85. This still seems high to me for a piece of glass + labor. What do you think?
This question is for window washers, contractors, or people with awesome common sense? (or of course just extremely creative people i guess) Any experienced window washers, or even just contractors in general? I am opening a window washing business soon and I don't like ladders. I definately don't have the money for a lift thing. So I bought some awesome squeegees that extend that I would like to use on windows that are high up. Now my questions are... how in the world am I going ot be able to tell if they are clean or not? I don't want to miss spots and have the business owner/home owner go upstairs and see it like that. Really the only thing I can think of is asking them if they minded if I went up to make sure it is clean, or asking them if they can do it. But with my previous sales experience, I do know that some people would be nice enough to do so, but there are the a-holes in the bunch who would not want to do that, also there are people who may not be around when I do the jobs. So what do you suggest? How can I make sure the windows are clean up there? ****reply to my first answer...insurance is more expensive if i step foot in the door to do work. so i was going to do outside work only, BUT now that you mention it, that is an AWESOME idea to contact cleaning companies to get refferals, wow. i may change my mind now. thank you. still unsure though.
Do I select brand of windows and then find an window installer? What is the recommended order for this job? 5 or 6 double pane 30 year old windows are leaking. Should I determine brand and style of windows first and then find a window installer? Or start with window contractor/installer and then ask for help to determine possible window replacement styles etc.
For window installation, should I call Home Depot or a local window company or contractor? I need to replace my single pane windows before winter in my entire house (18- 20 windows, plus 3 sliding doors). Is Home Depot a good contractor for windows and installation?
Double paned window of stc 28 is good for sound proofing? Do I need higher stc window for that purpose? I have never used double paned window. my contractor said stc28 is O.K but I doubt about it.Do I need thicker laminated window or triple paned window? And it is worth for money?
Should I get an evaporative cooler for my home or a standard window unit? In today's Parade magazine (it comes in our Sunday paper every week) there is an advertisement for a "Cyclonic Water Vaporization System." Here is the webpage: http://www.ihsmall.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=334 For those of you who are heating and cooling experts, do you recommend this type of cooling unit? Why or why not? Is it all the ad claims it to be? Or, is it best to buy a standard A/C window unit? We are trying to come up with a solution for my son's bedroom. It gets very hot, but he only has one small window, too small for a window unit unless we got a contractor to build him a new window. A contractor could also make a hole in the wall for the window unit. Please help us! We don't know what to do, and we want to a) cool the room really well and b) not spend a lot of money if possible. THANKS!
Lawyer advice regarding home improvement contractors/brick pointing/window changing? I recently had brick pointing and 4 windows changed on the face of my parents' 2 story building - 3 family w/ a store front. Contractor didn't grind out the old cement before putting in the new cement (which I was told was the correct way to do it ). For the windows, there was a 6" gap between the top of the window and the frame. The gap was "filled in" with pieces of wood that were covered with alumnium. I specifically asked if our new windows were going to look like our neighbors' before the work started and I was told "yes." When questioned about the gap, he stated that the place where he usually gets the windows from didn't have the size that we needed and that it was going to take 4 weeks to get them, so he made the decision to get the smaller windows without asking us. My parents were on the location while the work was being done, however they were busy tending the store. My sister and I work full time. I put some $ down, but withheld remaining bal. What legal action can I take? There were no contracts involved...only a "proposal". The proposal listed the scope of the work...no clauses in the proposal. Only thing mentioned about pymt was $1500 down and remainder of the balance ($2000) to be paid when work is complete. I signed and he signed. On the business card that we received from him, it has his name "Sam" and a license #. When I checked the license #, it wasn't under the name "Sam" it was a completely different name. I don't think he got a permit from the Dept. of Buildings neither because nothing was posted on our building.
Is it possible/cheaper to replace just glass vs the entire home window? My home is going to need new windows soon and a neighbor mentioned simply replacing the glass instead of the whole window. Is this really an option and is it cheaper? Do contractors that replace windows also give quotes for replacing just glass? Thanks for the help
we ordered window from Home Depot, and will be using their contractors, my friends said I should not.? They say I should of used a window company like Anderson, Penquin...did I do wrong??? The window is made by Simons, a quality product they just worry about workmanship
Need To Quickly Paint New Window Trim? I recently replaced some windows in my house with new Andersen windows and my contractor tells me I need to paint the interior trim as soon as possible to "stabalize" the windows. I am planning to do a major painting job in 3-4 months, but the contractor says it can not wait that long. Would there really be a problem in waiting?
Can you install wood window wrap after a vinyl window is installed? We are having a house built, and the standard plan does not include window wraps. We would like to have wood-wrapped windows inside and out, but the builder is asking what I believe to be a very steep price for installing them. Is it possible to have a contractor install these window wraps after the house is built? Or do they need to be installed, and then the windows installed over them? Also, can you give me an idea of what would be a fair price for the builder to charge? (Assuming nothing gancy, like
Duty of care in workplace involving contractors? If the scenario arises that an office employee trips over a power cord of a contractor fixing a window who is liable if the office worker breaks their arm? The contractor or the employer of the person working in the office? Assume that there was no notification of the contractor fixing the window and no hazard/caution signs. (In Western Australia) assume the cord was raised slightly off the floor. Also assume the employee walked round the corner and didn't have time to see the power cord.
When the contractor brings EnergyStarWindows to install, should they have all the stickers of a store window? Our contractor dropped off to-be-installed windows with very little information on them - just a generic white sticker with factory codes. Can these be the low-e, argon windows we ordered? There are no Energystar stickers on them, like the windows in Lowes. The factory is right down the road in Durham (we're in Raleigh). Also, they had half-screens, unlike the full screens we ordered. How can we verify the order is correct? Thanks.
Replacement windows botched by a reputable home store! The contractors took out all of the brick molding. ? The contractors sent by this home improvement store didn't know what they were doing. They ordered the wrong size windows. Instead of ordering the proper windows, they ripped out all of the framing and brick molding. Any suggestions how these windows can be put back properly? To make matters worse, some of the windows they put in were damaged. We have plastic over our windows and a wide gap that can possibly lead to water damage. Any suggestions as to what we can do now?
how much does a triple pane window cost? I have been looking all over the place, HD, lowes, interent, and have not been able to find anywhere how much an actual triple pane window cost with low-e argon gas. I do not want a contractors estimate, as that is all i have been able to find online, as i will be installing the windows myself. If anyone knows of a site or in general how much a 48" wide by 39" high sliding, single, or double hung window would cost, please let me know. thanks. fes1974, how much did you pay for your windows? here they are charging me about $750 for the 48"x 36" slider window, removal and installation.
Hi- What is cheaper? Hiring an independent contractor for window replacement? or going to Sears? or Lowes? I want to know if it's cheaper to go through a corporate place like Lowe's, or Sears, or is it cheaper to use an independent contractor? I'm having problems finding local people here in Jax, FL. sheesh! Thanks for any help!
Our skylight is leaking and cracked-who do you call to replace skylight-a contractor or window replacement co? I am mechanically inept and want this job done right because I will have no idea about this kind of work/labor. Anyone have any idea approx what cost???
How can I complain against window supplier? My contractor installed room windows and patio windows a year ago. The brand is superior windows. However,my handle of vinyle patio door was suddenly broken and asked about replacement. Initially,the window company asked me to contact my contractor who purchased windows and installed them. I contacted them but they said that I need to contact the window maker directly. After I explained this situation,the window company,Superior Window, said that they would send the handle for free and then I have been waiting for almost two months but no product. I have sent five follow emails to the company but they keep ignoring my emails without any reponse. Now I'd lile to send complaints to some consumer agencies. Do you know where I should send this complaints to? I spent almost $10,0000 for my windows and patio doors but this company (Superior Window) doesn't even care about customer's request. I even said that I am willing to pay for it. But they still don't care about my request.
How do I clean paint off my window and wood stained door? I just had the contractors paint and there is paint everywhere. I am not wanting to scratch the window or take the finish off the door. Help with this question without causing additional damage. Thanks
Any experienced window washers, or even just contractors in general? I am opening a window washing business soon and I don't like ladders. I definately don't have the money for a lift thing. So I bought some awesome squeegees that extend that I would like to use on windows that are high up. Now my questions are... how in the world am I going ot be able to tell if they are clean or not? I don't want to miss spots and have the business owner/home owner go upstairs and see it like that. Really the only thing I can think of is asking them if they minded if I went up to make sure it is clean, or asking them if they can do it. But with my previous sales experience, I do know that some people would be nice enough to do so, but there are the a-holes in the bunch who would not want to do that, also there are people who may not be around when I do the jobs. So what do you suggest?
Can you install a bay window where one doesn't exist today? There is so much info on 'replacement' windows where the header already exists. What about if you want to add a brand new window in a room? I don't think it involves a 'load bearing wall' but don't even know if that makes a difference. I don't want to waste my/their time having contractors come to my home if this isn't even possible. Thanks.
how does one go about finding a stained glass contractor? we have a small window in our living room that we? wanted to replace with a stained glass window? we live in northern new jersey. how would one go about finding someone that does this type of work? how much could a job like that run?
Got contractors coming inside, need shoes booties or coverings? Got contractors coming inside to install window treatments, I need shoes booties or those plastic sticky carpet covering. I cant find sturdy shoe booties at HD and Lowes. The ones from those hospitals would be ideal. Any ideas on how to best protect the flooring while they are here (they wont take off their shoes)? If its booties, where can I find them? I am located in So Cal. THanks!
what can I expect to pay to have a contractor remove a window and put in slidding glass doors? I will pay for the doors seperatlly
what is the standard remodel contractors warranties in new york? Im having a an addition build to my exsisting structure to include electrical, plumbing, windows and roofing. The contractor originaly wanted to provide me with a 3 mounth coverage but i feel this is inadiqute, however he is willing to go to 6 mounths is this the standard or a should i ask for more.
How Do You Remove Primer From A Wooden Door & Wooden Window Frames? My stupid contractor painted my wooden window frame and my door frame with primer. I didn’t think I would have to tell the project manager not to paint the wooden sections! T.C. You missed the point. I DID NOT want primer, paint or anything on them I love they way they looked naturally. *Faints*
How do I remove dried splattered concrete from my window and screen? I added a new concrete slab on my back portch area. The contractor splattered concrete on my window and screen and did not clean it away while it was wet. Now I'm stuck with removing this dried mess. By the way....the contractor has been out on leave for a few weeks and won't return until August. He has not been paid any money for the work he has done so far. The splattered concrete is bugging me. ....afterall, it's an ugly mess. .
How do I measure my windows for ordering window tint film? I would like to do it myself. Do I measure linear feet or do I measure square footage? I have 20 windows but the panels are no wider than 32 inches or longer than 29 inches. I have several estimates for the same film but wildly different in terms of price. How do the contractors come up with the true amount of film needed? Thank you in advance
how much do contractors charge to install windows:double hung,picture,side sliders? installed with trim and stools in new orleans
What is the sales tax for contractor's work such as new window installation in Cook County, Illinois? I like to know the total sales tax, including state and county's.
What is the white stuff that contractors smear on the inside of windows when they are remodeling a store? No, I'm familiar with Chauking. It's the stuff on the window itself. Someone told me it is shaving cream. It is to block out anyone trying to look in to see what is being done to the property inside.
Should I have my old single-pane picture window replaced with full window unit or just a glass panel? These are the options my contractor offered: 1) Install a fixed window unit with a white frame to match new windows. 2) Install a fixed glass panel, no frame with wood stops. Option 2 is about 20% more.
I have a dark living room with a huge window that doesn't get light. Should I put lights up in the window? I once saw in a contractor actually put lights in the window sill of a north facing window to add the effect that lots of natural light was coming in even thought it wasn't. Anyone ever done this? Should the lights go up in the window or in the ceiling right in front of the window. I have a very old window and don't want to screw it up. Any thoughts on lighting windows to improve the overall feel of a dark room? Right now I just have recessed lighting. Should I focus on lamps, a chandelier or the window lighting?
Is it a good practice to leave an existing window exposed during a new shower install? A contractor recently informed me that it is okay to leave my existing window uncovered in a new shower install. Another contractor stated that this was risky and the window should be "built over" due to future water damage. I like the idea of still having the natural light in my soon-to-be bathroom, but I don't want the risk of ruining my house foundation. Have I been misinformed or is this a possibility? Thanks so much for your answers!
Contractors, please expose the magic numbers. How much does it cost to remodel these items? sliding door to a patio, 6 foot bedroom window, remove a tub and install a walk-in shower with new travestine tiling Every time I try to google it, all I can find are people who want to come out and give me estimates. I want to know a number before I meet these people, so I can tell how inflated their prices are. The Flip That House show hasn't been too helpful because they don't itemize the work they are doing.
Why so many No-show Home Improvement contractors? Over the years, I have had several Home improvement contractors show up to take measurements for floors, windows, plumbing, etc, but then they never follow through and send an estimate. Why do you think that is happening? I have money to spend and tried to track themn down for their quote but they gve me the runaround.
How much is it to have an Egress window installed? If it is done by a contractor on average what is the cost to install an Egress window including materials and labor.
Will State Farm insurance cover an incident of brick masonry moving away from my bay window over the years? There is a space between the brick masonry (below the window) and the bay window that I've had repaired 3 times in the last 19 years. The last time was 5 years ago. It worked until now, but the gap is getting bigger. I think each time the worker put in foam to fill the opening and then put caulking over the top to even it all out. It's like the brick and the bay window are settling, but not at the same rate. A contractor suggested that the masonry has moved much more than the window. Maybe the window is not supported by the brick framing below, and the brick is laid up as a free standing vaneer. He thinks it is in our best interest to have the masonry removed and properly replaced. Is this something that insurance covers?
Is the brand Action Windows a good brand of window for a new house.? The contractor building my house wants to use this brand of window. I have never heard of this brand. Let me know what you all think.
Who is responsible? Contractors left new windows in my yard for over a month, that were ordered incorrectly.? My yard is not secured. They have said they will remove them, repeatedly. They have not. I have had the correct windows installed and paid in full. Can I remove/sell them myself? Location MA
Can anyone recommend a reliable and inexpensive window installation company in miami? Looking for 3 windows on a new home to be replaced with High Impact windows. I'm looking for a contractor that is reliable, easy to get in touch with, and can work weekends. If any other Miami homeowners have a had a positive experience with a window company in Miami Dade county, I'm open to recomendations. thanks
do I have a case on my Insurance and the contractors that rebuild my house? We had a fire in Sept.2007. The insurance hired contractors to rebuild our home. After 6 months we moved back in. Since then we have had all kinds of problems from windows leek, water coming in threw walls, ceiling leaks, electrical problems,mold, and a lot more. Contractors have been here several times but the problem list is never fixed. We have been getting sick, from heart attacks to doctors don't know. We think its from the mold. We can't sell the house because of this. We have a lot wrong but don't know what to do.
Do I have to remove outdoor window caulk before putting in new silicone? A window in my house is leaking when it rains and damaging the drywall on the interior of the house. A contractor told me to remove the white caulk and replace it with silicone. He said it would be a big job and he didn't want to do it. I'm not that handy, but I need to stop the leak ASAP. Can I just smear some silicone over the old hard caulk to fill in the cracks?
Where can I find brackets to hold up my air conditioner its a window unit? I saw one at homedepot , but it was just a single bracket and was over priced. I just want something simple and sturdy. Do I need to go to a contractors ac store and will they sell to the public?
Can I install a window well after my house is finished? And new bigger windows? Does anyone with experience know if I can install a bigger window and window well in my basement? I realize the basement walls are the foundation of my house but I have heard people say I could still get a contractor to do it. I'm looking to finish and turn my basement into a bedroom and zoning says I need a larger window and window well. p.s. Any idea how much space I'll need between my new insulated interior walls and the current foundation walls? thanks!
Where do you stand if you need windows fixed midway through their 10 year guarantee? The window contractor went bankrupt last year but the main contractor is still around. Surely it is not up to the main contractor to standby these windows? Is it?
What to do about shody window install in home? Had windows installed in our home...there are alot of little things that are not right. On top of all the little problems we now have a problem with flies. We had some one check windows and they said that they weren't done right. Who can we call to get someone to look at these..also can we sue. Calling the contractor is not an option...
Can I plug my window AC into an extension power chord? The manual says that you must use a wall socket directly, but i was wondering if any contractors or engineers could tell me its ok if its a good extension chord.
What is the standard installation price of replacement window in the philadelphia area? Looking for standard contractor pricing for specific jobs, like drywall, doors, windows, capping, interior carpentry in the philadelphia area.
I'm plan on installing a 2' by 3' window in my bathroom that is windowless, how much on average will it cost? So how much will it cost me and most importantly on average how long will it take? I will have to make the opening and frame the window then install the window. Or would it be better to hire a contractor, but if i do on average how much will they charge me?
how much $ to install a replacement window in Milwaukee Wi.? Window size is 24" x 60". I have 18 windows and was quoted and am trying to determine if I am better off buying windows from homedepot and hiring a contractor to install. A gerneral idea of cost of installation is what I'm looking for.
Hi, I am wondering how much does it cost to cut through a new window (wooden side, 2nd floor)? I want to hire a contractor for this. The side of the townhouse is wooden (cedar) and the window should be on the 2nd floor.
How do I know if a window is low E or not? I told my contractor to install Low E double paned windows with argon air in between the double panes. How do I know he installed the windows that I specified?
how much would it cost to build three 25' interior walls with one door and a 20 foot panoramic window in one? K, one wall would have a 20ft panoramic window, one wall would have a single door that is not fancy. How much can I expect to spend if all three walls are 25 feet? There will not be a contractor, my dad and father-in-law will build it, but I have to buy the supplies. I am trying to stay away from drywall because I think it is a big pain. nice thought... but my dad wont pay for it, just build it... :) and yes, I need electric wiring in one or two of the walls.
how can i replace glass pane in an alum window? i have a CB house built in 77, alum single hung windows. in a fit of stupidity i broke on of the glass panes. any idea/website/pics of how to replace it. i know where to get the glass and have quite a few tools (loads of car stuff and a bit of household/contractor stuff). any help GREATLY appreciated. thanks rob jeffe great article, and yes it would have to be the slider and not the stationary. will check it out..thanks!
Question for builders/ painting contractors: what is the best way to get paint off of vinyl windows??? I've tried "goof off" but it seems to take away the shine from the vinyl.
I have a stain glass window that I want installed correctly as a basement faux window with a light behind it.? I want suggestions on light kits or back lighting that is safe to put in a wall? As it is right now the contractor wants to put tin foil in the wall to act as a reflector and I would prefer he not do this due to safety concerns. Please suggest safe ways to back light a stain glass window installed in a sheet rock and timber wall structure.
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