Home Improvement Contractor - Licensed Contractors
Pre-intallation of new windows in a house.?
I hired a contractor to install 30 windows in my house. I was wondering if anyone else had windows installed and could give me some tips on what to expect. (i.e. have security wires inserted before the windows are placed in) Also does anyone have horror stories of windows not being installed correctly? Please let me know. Thank you. I've done all the usual preliminary task of checking licenses and bonds on the contractor that I have chosen. As for the security switch built it, I had no idea that was an option. I am interested in still hearing any horror stories that might come my way, so that I am better prepared.
Public Comments
- You should have asked your question before hiring the contractor. It may too late to correct a potential problem if you already have a contract with him. 1. Did you check with the state licensing board to see if his contractors license is current? 2. This check should also let you know if he has valid workers compensation insurance in case an employee gets hurt while on your property. (This check may vary from state to state, I am speaking from a California perspective) 3. Were you able to verify his experience with windows in some manner, such as references from past jobs? 30 windows is large order and I suspect that some if not all will need to be custom made. The factory should give you all of the options available to you before you purchase the order. If security is a concern, the factory may already have the problem solved with sensor switches already built into the windows. You should have discussed your needs for the windows (security, R factor, etc.) with the window salesman before you purchased them. If they haven't been purchased yet, you still have time to solve this. If they have been purchased already, you have to go with whatever was bought and then solve your needs later. Windows come in so many different styles with so many different features that you should do some homework before purchasing a large order like that. Get exactly what you want before they are installed. Don't try to correct them to meet your needs after they are instralled. Have the contractor walk you through the installation process. Moisture barrier>hanging them level>weatherproofing>etc. Then research his installation process online before he begins to insure that he's following accepted practices for your area of the country. You've asked a complex question and my answer barely scratches the surface. Good luck with 30 windows.
