Planning to get new skylights for your living room? Considering replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones? No matter the project, you must consider every aspect before giving your approval. For instance, you have to keep Pocatello weather in mind, which includes cold winters and warm summers. Glass installations are an investment for many years to come, and it is wise to select a proficient installer in Pocatello, such as nuvuglass.com. Understandably, you want to get quotes from many service providers, and in this post, we will share what you need to check when comparing options.
Define your goals
The cost of any project largely depends on goals and overall materials. For instance, installing vented skylights will cost a lot more than replacing a sliding door. Quotes also get complex when the requirements are very specific. If you want custom sizes, speciality glass, or certain frame designs, you will have to pay more. Always ensure you have a clear scope for the entire project before you ask for estimates.
Request for itemized estimates
Stay away from installers who just share a random quote for your project. You don’t want vague totals but a complete breakdown of everything. What material will be used, and what will it cost? What is the cost of labor? Are they charging a per-hour rate for labor or a flat rate? What is the cost of hardware and sealants? Does the quote include additional prices for preparation and cleaning? Will the installer assist with obtaining permits, and if so, what is the associated cost? When you have itemized quotes, you don’t have to worry about hidden costs.
Type and quality of glass
Always check quotes to find whether installers have included the price of single, double, or triple-pane glass. You should also ask what low-E coatings would cost you. Some projects require tempered, insulated, and laminated glass, and material costs may vary by vendors. Be wary of estimates that don’t mention the exact quality and type of materials. It is also a smart idea to get samples and before-and-after photos of previous projects to set the expectations right.
Double-check add-ons
Ask the installer about the frame materials, which include options like wood, aluminum, and vinyl. Hardware brands are also critical because if the handles, knobs, and other things fade or break within two or three years, you will have to spend again. Discuss with the installer if hardware parts will be available in the future. If energy efficiency is your prime objective, you should focus on the glass and frames alike.
Check the warranty
This one is a no-brainer. You shouldn’t work with an installer who doesn’t offer a warranty. There is a product warranty, which includes glass breakage and seal failure, which should be mentioned clearly. The next thing is a labor warranty that covers leaks or shifting. For some products or materials, you may get a lifetime warranty. Ensure every such promise made is mentioned in the contract.
Compliance
Another thing that can help you compare glass installers is whether they handle Pocatello building permits. The technicians should be familiar with the energy codes and local regulations. Also, don’t forget to review whether an estimate includes permits, which might otherwise become a surprise later.
Key takeaways
As a customer, you have to look at every little detail before working with a glass installer in Pocatello. From the initial consultation to the final cleanup, after the work is done, every aspect should be included in an estimate. If you have questions, always discuss them upfront, and when you are assured of a discount, ask them to send the quote with these details.
