Questions to Ask Every Window Contractor — Print This List
Most homeowners walk into a window meeting knowing they should ask questions, but not knowing what to ask. The contractor has done this a hundred times. You haven't. This list levels the playing field. Most window contractors are honest professionals. This list isn't meant to make you suspicious of everyone — it's a tool to help you have clear conversations and feel confident asking the right questions. Print this page. Take it with you to every appointment. Check off the ones you get answers to. ## Part 1: Before You Meet Anyone Ask yourself these three questions before you call a single contractor. ### 1. What's your project? - Full replacement of all windows? A few at a time? Single window? - New construction or replacement? - Are you doing any other work at the same time (siding, trim, insulation)? ### 2. What matters most to you? There are four pillars: **Money, Time, Design, and Performance**. Most people can only get three. Pick your priority: | I care most about... | Then expect to compromise on... | |---------------------|-------------------------------| | Keeping costs low | Design choices and timeline | | Getting it done fast | Total cost and premium features | | Perfect look and feel | Budget and speed | | Maximum energy efficiency | Budget (may also limit design) | ### 3. Who's involved? - Who makes the final decision? - Is an architect or designer involved? - Do you have a general contractor, or are you managing this yourself? --- ## Part 2: Questions About the Company - How long have you been in business? - Do you have a physical location? - Can you provide references from the last 12 months? - Are you licensed, bonded, and insured? (Ask for proof of insurance.) - Do you use your own installation crew or subcontractors? - Who pulls the permit — you or me? - What does your warranty cover? Frames? Glass? Labor? (Get it in writing.) --- ## Part 3: Questions About the Product - What brand and series are you quoting? - Why this brand for my specific situation (not in general)? - What is the frame material and why is it right for my climate? - What is the glass package? (Low-E? Argon? Triple-pane?) - What are the U-Factor and SHGC ratings? (Look for the NFRC label.) - What colors are available? Are there extra costs? - What hardware options are there? - Is there an upgrade for better sound insulation? - How long to manufacture and deliver? --- ## Part 4: Questions About Installation - What does installation include exactly? (Removal? Disposal? Trim? Caulking? Cleanup?) - Is this a full-frame replacement or insert (pocket) installation? - How long will installation take? - How many people on the crew? - What happens if the windows arrive damaged? - What happens if they're the wrong size? - Who do I call if there's an issue after installation? - Do you protect landscaping, siding, and interior finishes? --- ## Part 5: Questions About Price - Can I have a written, itemized quote? - How long is this price valid? - What is the payment schedule? - Is there a deposit? How much? Refundable? - Are there financing options? What's the APR? - Are there any fees I should expect that aren't on this quote? - What's not included that might come up? (Rot repair? Structural issues? Siding repair?) --- ## The Red Flag Checklist If any of these happen during the meeting, it's worth getting a second (or third) opinion: - "This price is only good if you sign today" - Can't or won't give you an itemized quote - Dismisses your questions ("don't worry about that") - Badmouths all other brands - Pushes financing before you've asked - Can't explain the NFRC label - Cash-only or pushy about payment method - Won't provide references or insurance proof **Trust your gut.** If something feels off, get another quote. For more detail on these tactics and how to handle them, see the **[Common Mistakes](/knowledge/common-mistakes/)** article. --- ## One More Thing Take notes during the appointment. Write down what they say. If they promise something verbally, ask them to add it to the quote. Verbal promises disappear. Written quotes are enforceable.