New windows and doors are an investment that you probably want to make once, without having to pay for repairs soon or for repeated replacements before time. There are two things you need to secure your investment: quality products and quality installation. Here are some tips to help you find the window and door contractor who can deliver Thornton window replacement installation services of the highest quality.

Get Referrals from Trusted Sources and Check the Names You Find

You surely know people who have recently worked with a door and window contractor and who can provide you references. You can use the names of those contractors to kick-start your search, then you can continue by extending your search online. Check contractor websites to find general information about the contractor’s specializations and portfolio, then check the reputation of the businesses that you consider suitable on forums and review websites.

Contact Window and Door Contractors

When you have at least three or four contractors on your list, it is time to establish contact with them. Call them on the phone and schedule a personal meeting – you can either visit the contractor in their office (and find out a lot by simply entering the place) or you can invite the contractor to the future job site. During the meeting, you should find out the answers to many important questions – here are some:

• The contractor’s credentials – you should only work with a contractor who is properly licensed and insured to provide window and door installation services and you also need a contractor who specializes in the type of project that you have;
• Referrals and portfolio – ask the contractor to provide you referrals that you can check;
• The steps of the project – ask the contractor to walk you through the door and window installation process, telling you what to expect with every phase, especially in terms of the disruption that your household will have to endure. Find out about how the contractor handles the debris generated during the process, such as pieces of broken glass and pieces of the old frames;
• Your options in terms of materials – windows and doors are available in a very wide range of process, styles and quality levels, so ask for guidance from the roofer, you will surely get lots of great advice.

At the end of the meetings, ask the contractors to provide written cost estimates with the details of what you have discussed, then take your time to evaluate and compare the documents. Beware of any contractors who request a downpayment that exceeds 10% of the final price of the project or $1,000 – asking for such a substantial payment in advance is not standard practice in the industry.

Sign a Contract

You should beware of businesses that want you to sign a contract upfront, when you meet for the first time, but you will need to have a contract before work starts. Whether you draft the contract or it is provided by the contractor, make sure that it includes all the details of your agreement with your contractor.