Replacing your drafty, cracked, or warped windows is a great way to enhance your property’s aesthetic appeal and help you save money on energy bills. However, it isn’t as simple as buying new windows. You must determine whether you can install them yourself or hire a professional. To help you make the right decision and figure out how to choose the right contractor to install your home’s windows, House Digest spoke exclusively with Kate Land, the vice president of product and innovation at CornerstoneBuilding Brands. She explained the pros of hiring a professional. “Proper installation is crucial for window and door performance, and incorrect installation may void the manufacturer’s warranty,” said Land. “Window installation is not a first time DIY project. Unless you are very proficient, hiring an experienced contractor is recommended even when installation instructions are provided.” Since proper installation is the difference between energy-efficient portals and ones with operational issues, avoid DIY window installations if you’re not confident.

Make sure you go through customer reviews and get quotes from multiple licensed contractors to choose the right one. One of the cons of using professional services is you’ll have to bear increased cost to replace a window. “Typically, professional installation [will] run 3-4 times the consumer cost of a basic window,” Land explained. “That often covers a higher quality window than is available to consumers, as well as their labor, specialized tools, pulling permits and knowledge of how to finish the window on the exterior and interior so the adjacent siding and drywall look clean.” Be prepared to shell out between $100 and $300 per window, with complex installations costing as high as $600. 

The first step is to ask your neighbors, friends, and family for recommendations. Then, check customer reviews online. This will help you get an idea of the contractor’s work ethic and assess how satisfied their prior clients were with their job. Land agrees and mentioned in her House Digest exclusive, “Since new windows are an investment, customers should review contractor recommendations and do their own research first.” Start with sites like Better Business Bureau and Angi’s to shortlist potential contractors. Then, go through their website and social media channels to take a look at their past projects and their work quality. Make a note of the professionals you like and get in touch with them. Inquire about their prior experience regarding window installation (yes, specifically windows) along with their certifications and state licenses (like FENSA and CERTASS). You also want to ensure they’re insured, “including workers’ compensation (where applicable) and general liability, which is crucial for protecting against potential liabilities and ensuring peace of mind during the project.”

Strike off names that don’t have the desired experience or aren’t qualified to install windows. Now, ask the remaining for quotes. But clarify if it’s chargeable or free before moving forward. Getting quotes from different professionals will help you compare the ones you like and that fit your set budget. “Failing to obtain estimates from different contractors can lead to missed opportunities for cost savings or better service,” mentioned Land. When you find ones that tick your boxes, ask them for their background checks, installation timeline, and payment schedule. Discuss any discounts or promotions beforehand.

If you decide to go the DIY route while renovating your windows, make sure you have the required tools and materials for a successful installation. A caulk gun, power drill, hammer, level, waterproof shims, finish nails, wood screws, and small pry bar are just some of the implements you’ll need. Land seconded this in her exclusive House Digest chat. “If homeowners are exceptionally handy and plan to install windows themselves, they should make sure they have everything required for a successful job,” she said. “This includes ensuring that everything from precise measuring to undertaking the installation and finishing the fit, is reviewed and prepped ahead of time.”

You also want to keep an eye out for common mistakes. Land elaborate, “In the case of DIY installation, measuring for the proper replacement window, installing it level and plumb, and finishing off the adjacent trim and siding are often areas where errors are made.” Avoiding them will ensure your windows open and close properly. Remember to add insulation as well. Plus, set a realistic schedule to avoid complications later on. To elaborate, a window requires about six hours for installation, so designate time accordingly. Additionally, don’t forget to set some extra time aside for surprise events, like needing to adjust the plumb more than once or run out of finish nails.