A good contractor will have reference letters to show you. Even though many people want a contractor with many years of experience, everyone needs to get started somewhere. I don’t want to be their first job, but I don’t ignore them either. Getting estimates on the same brand of windows will help. Don’t let a contractor tell you the brand he uses (that you have never heard of) is better than a well known name. Decide what brand you want before the estimate. You only want to have this done once, so spend a little extra for quality products.

Ask for and CHECK their references!

Go LOOK at previous work they’ve done, and talk to the homeowners… ask questions like, did they clean up after themselves, did they seem professional, and ethical, are they happy with the results, etc.

There are two approaches to replacing windows – make the window fit the opening, or make the opening fit the window. Not all window openings are standard sizes, so this is an important distinction. I prefer to make the window fit the opening myself. (I’ve replaced a LOT of windows, hehehe). This may cost more for the windows, but you get a cleaner look after the installation.

Ideally, they will add a wind barrier around the opening, if one is not already there (literally, wrap plastic around the opening, to about a foot beyond the window frame).
I like to ‘dry fit’ my windows first… once I know they are going to go in properly, then I pull them out, and apply caulk. I’m generous with the caulk – squeeze out is good! hehehe.
Inside, I like to use batten insulation to fill really large spaces, and follow up with DapTex Multipurpose foam sealant. I prefer this insulating foam over Great Stuff. It does most of its expansion immediately (Great Stuff can still be expanding an hour later, which can put the window frame in a bind, in some cases), and it cleans up with soap and water, much more user friendly than Great Stuff, as anyone who has ever gotten it on their hands or clothing (or carpet!) can tell you, hehehe.

The installer should also provide you with a warranty – they may need to return to make an adjustment to a window (usually due to settling), to help it operate better.

If you have Vinyl Windows installed – do NOT ever lubricate them with a petroleum based product (that includes most silicone sprays) – instead, use wax… Johnson’s furniture wax works very well… again, be sure it is WAX, not ‘polish’, or an oil base lubricant. The petroleum products actually attack the vinyl (plastic, made from petroleum), causing it to get brittle, and prematurely age. Gulf wax ‘cakes’ (found wherever canning supplies are sold, or often in hobby sections of a department store) work well too. Just rub it onto the track along the sides of the sash. (I keep both in my service vehicles)

I like my work crew to look professional, too – our vehicles are clean and neat, and so are we – it makes a good impression. When the contractor cares about how they look to the customer, you know they want to do a good job.

Have Fun