So you know it’s time to replace those old, drafty windows.  Maybe you’ve been searching online for the right window company.  Or perhaps you’ve visited a remodeling expo and got some information from a few different companies, all promising the best windows and the best service at the best price.  Maybe you’ve even received a few estimates and you’re mulling over your options.  

One lingering question may be on your mind:  How do I make sure I don’t choose the wrong window company?

Below are a few red flags that you should look out for when searching for the right window company for you:

• Watch out for high pressure sales techniques.
  • When given your quote, watch out for pricing that is “only good for today”.  Many sales reps use this high pressure sales technique to rush you into signing right away.  They don’t want you to compare quotes and they may not be offering you a good “sale price” at all.  Be wary of sales that “end today”—chances are they don’t!
  • When you set your appointment for an estimate, were you asked if both spouses would be there for the quote?  This is another high pressure sales technique.  Sales reps know that a lot of people won’t make significant buying decisions without talking to their significant other. 
  • Don’t be afraid to tell the sales representative to leave!  If you’ve received your quote and no longer have any questions about the product or service, and the rep still won’t leave your home, just tell them (politely) to leave!  This stalling technique is another tactic used to pressure you into signing sooner than you’d like.
• Watch out for pricing that looks too good to be true.
  • Reputable, established window companies have physical showrooms and offices.  This offers their customers the opportunity to visit and see samples that cannot be brought to their home.
    • Quick tip:  Google the company name.  Did you find a showroom?  Or does a house address show up?  If it’s a home address, then this window company works out of the back of a home—they don’t have a physical presence in the community!
  • Well established companies have a dedicated service department to cover warranty work.  Just because a company has a labor warranty doesn’t mean they will actually honor it.
  • Companies that have been established for years have stuck around for good reason—they are financially sound, and they offer good products and good service.  Watch out for companies that have only been around for a few years—if they disappear, then the warranties your windows and doors came with may become worthless!
• Finally, check out the company reviews!
  • Check out the reviews of the company in multiple places.  A good place to look is Yelp, Google, BBB and Angie’s List.  Do a thorough search of the companies you’re considering!

Windows Plus has been serving southwest Ohio and northern Kentucky since 1982.  Contact Windows Plus of Cincinnati or Windows Plus of Dayton for more information!