How to Effectively Evaluate Quotes for Window Replacement Jobs in Minneapolis MN
Chad Markus • September 3, 2019
Window replacement in Minneapolis MN is an issue and a process that affects hundreds of thousands to millions of American homes - which makes it a paramount responsibility to undertake when the situation arises, especially because a window is responsible for the safety, comfort, and privacy that a family can enjoy at home.
Finding the perfect contractor in Minneapolis who can do the job of replacing your window effectively and as smoothly as possible is already hard enough with all the different providers and testimonials that can be found online and in classified ads; however, that’s only one part of the problem. After gathering a list of prospective contractors to work with, chances are they’ll have different estimates and quotes, which means you’ll have to end up evaluating different kinds of quotes and interests against each other to see what option best fits in your budget.
According to a recent survey conducted on homeowner expenses and purchasing habits, 63 percent of homeowners tend to compare estimates on different types of jobs from three or four different professional contractors or service providers in order to get the best value for their budget. By canvassing and comparing different quotes and advantages, homeowners have an advantage of enhanced security that they’ll make with their investment in different home improvement procedures (such as window replacements). Understanding the contrast in quotes will help you make better decisions on which contractor fits best in your allotted budget and requirements.
Before we expound on how you can compare estimates or quotes better, we’ll first have to define and differentiate the two.
Here’s what you need to know about estimates and quotes, and their difference:
- An “estimate” refers to how much a contractor or professional will foresee the total job cost, completely based on their perspective, analysis of the issue or need, and past experience - which can be either more or less 10 to 15 percent of the actual job cost
- A quote (or bid) is a more formal, accurate charge of the total expenses that the job will incur, and is the basis for the price that will be put in the contract for you both to sign and agree on
Now that you understand the differences, here are a few ways you can effectively evaluate different window replacement quotes to ensure maximum savings while getting the job done in the most effective way possible:
Make sure the quotes you get are detailed all the way through
The problem that arises when it comes to most quotes is that they aren’t detailed enough to include every single cost that can arise during the whole process - which means that overspending will arise if you aren’t careful enough with fully evaluating the quotes you get. Transparency in costs and itemization must be present in your quotes, and should reflect every single request that you made during the consultation: this involves having to read the quote carefully, understanding that all possible expenses are included in the list, and other factors such as hourly rates, fixed project dates, and other important details that require spending money.
Cut out the extremely-low bids
The saying goes: “if it’s too good to be true, then it definitely is.” If you notice that there’s one bid that’s way too low compared to everything else without any logic behind it, you should definitely remove it as it most likely is a scam where the low costs are compensated with things such as shoddy workmanship, cheap materials, or hidden costs that will result in a higher charge than the other bids.
Do research on your contractors
When evaluating different quotes, take time to do a quick search on the internet to learn more about who you could possibly be working with. You can find different project samples, testimonials, and most importantly: honest reviews. Some contractors might have a bad reputation online, which acts as enough reason to remove them from the list of choices you have; on the other hand, contractors with good reviews can make it easy for you to single them out for your final choices, which will help with setting your expectations for what’s to come!
If you’re looking for a window replacement contractor in Minnesota, Advanced Exteriors is your best option. Contact us today for more information.
Re-roofing Minneapolis MN
New siding isn't just protective of your house; it's also a great way to boost your curb appeal and make your home shine. Choosing to replace your siding is a great investment in your home, but there are a few things to consider before undertaking this project. When Should I Replace My Home's Siding? Inspect your current siding. Look for places where it seems warped, using a screwdriver to poke around and determine how firm the material is. If you see signs of rot, it's time for siding replacement. Peeling paint and sagging places on the material is also an indicator that the siding isn't preventing moisture from entering your house and damaging the wood beneath. In these cases, it's important to replace your siding as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the house. Mold and mildew are a third sign to replace your siding. Dry rot, which isn't always visible, is a common problem with wooden siding. You may be able to replace damaged sections, or you may have to replace the whole material. You can detect it yourself by tapping the side of your house with a hammer or the end of your screwdriver to find areas with dry rot. In all of these cases, it's important to have your home inspected to ensure that you don't have more structural damage beyond the siding. Choosing the Right Color Siding Choosing the right color may be limited by your homeowner's association, or simply by your neighborhood convention. People living in a hotter climate may wish to choose lighter colors that reflect sunlight and help save energy. Consider the colors of your window and door frames, too, and choose a color that compliments them. The material you choose may affect your color choices. Wooden siding needs to be repainted, which gives you an option to change the color in the future. Vinyl siding, however, stays in the color it came in. Painting over the factory finish takes away from the benefits that this material offers, like less maintenance than wood siding. Types of Siding Materials What kind of siding will you choose? Wood and vinyl are the most common, but there are a couple of other things to consider. Look at the rest of your neighborhood. You may have HOA restrictions on what kind to select, or, if you opt for a different material than the rest of the area, you could lower your home's value. The climate you live in is also a factor, considering heat and humidity, plus the likelihood of termites. Talk to your local siding contractor for their recommendations. In Minnesota, for example, insulated siding can keep your home warmer in these cold winters, plus improve your home's energy efficiency. Another thing to consider is how much you're willing to commit to upkeep on the siding. Vinyl is less work, but it may not look as nice as wood siding. In the middle of these is fiber cement siding, which resists insect and water damage but will require repainting on a regular basis. Finally, choosing siding that fits your budget is a large concern. New siding can improve your home's value and can be an investment in your home. It's the first thing people often notice and is definitely worth the investment. Ready to Get Started? Let's get new siding on your home! Call Chad Markus today at (763) 537-5117, or Vinyl Siding Minneapolis MN for more information and for a free quote.
Replacing your home's windows can help improve your energy efficiency and protect your Minnesota home against drafts during brutal winter storms. Window replacement costs can vary, and higher-end windows can cost even more, upwards of $1,200. There are a few factors that influence window replacement costs. Reasons For Window Replacement Over time, the seals, frames, or even the windows themselves will wear down and begin to leak. Without proper care and maintenance, you'll end up with leaks and drafts. Plus, windows can be easily broken with just a little bit of force. Condition Of Your Window Frames Before you think about the costs of window replacements, it's important to have the existing window frames inspected for rot or damage. Excess moisture or an insect infection can damage the frame's wood and make the window itself weaken. You can do an inspection yourself before having a professional determine the extent of the damage. If the frame feels soft to the touch, is cracked, or shows other noticeable signs of wear, the frame along with the window will need to be replaced. If the frame is solid, however, then you can simply replace the window itself. Frames can either be wooden or vinyl. Vinyl frames are less expensive and last longer than wooden ones. Plus, vinyl frames are easier to clean and are a lower-maintenance option. Wooden frames, while more attractive than vinyl ones for many people, are also more expensive and costly to maintain. They typically need painting or staining for extra weather protection and may peel or rot from water damage. If you have to replace the wooden frames, expect your final price for installation and material to double. Do You Want Window Replacement? Before you commit to window replacement for your home, it's important to choose who you purchase your windows from. A larger "big box" home improvement store may be the best option if you're not looking for a custom or high-end replacement, and if you don't want to get "hands-on." Larger stores generally have fair pricing for the windows themselves but may make their profit margins on the cost of sales commission and insurance for installation. Many homeowners in Minnesota find a better option for complete window installation by choosing a local, qualified contractor and window manufacturer. For example, a standard-size, double-hung, double-pane vinyl window, constructed for energy efficiency, typically costs between $450 and $600, including installation. Wooden windows, like wooden frames, cost more. A replacement for a wooden window can range between $800 and $1,000 per installation. If you have to replace both the window and frame, then you'll have extra professional work. This is considered "new construction" or "full-frame" window installation and will have an extra cost. Replacing the windows in your home is an investment in the house's value and will improve your experience in the home. Consider window replacement as an investment, not an unnecessary expense. Let's Replace Your Windows! For the best Minnesota window replacement, call Chad Markus at (763) 537-5117 for a free quote. Or, you click Replacement Vinyl Windows Minneapolis MN for more information about how we can make your home the envy of the neighborhood and improve your property value!
Complete roof replacement – it's something that every home will need eventually in order to protect the building or in cases of severe storm damage. While a well-maintained, regularly repaired and inspected roof may last many, many years, eventually you'll need to replace the entire thing. When you're preparing to have your roof replaced, there are a few things that you should know about the process – and it's definitely more intensive than just replacing a few shingles. Removing the Old Shingles Shingles that are curled, cracked or worn indicate the need for a full roof replacement. Most contractors will remove all the old shingles and nails. Good contractors will make sure that they pick everything up from your lawn when they're finished, but roof nails can be small, so be careful with children and pets until you're certain all of them are gone. Some contractors may choose to put a new layer of shingles over the existing ones, but this isn't a full roof replacement, and the older shingles may not provide a solid enough base for the new ones. Inspecting the Roof's Decking Once the shingles are removed, your contractor will inspect the roof deck to see if it, too, needs repair. The wood deck is the structure to which the shingles or other roof covering, such as tiles, are attached. A good roof deck ensures your roof covering remains in place and keeps it from falling off due to weather or wear and tear. Fixing the Underlayment The underlayment is a water-resistant barrier that lies between the roof covering and the roof deck. It is installed on top of the roof deck and fits snugly against the wood. The most common underlayment material is roofing felt, and asphalt is used as the protective material to cover it, for its sealant properties and the fact that it's a lightweight, easily spreadable covering. Replacing the Flashing The flashing is a rust-resistant metal, which is placed to provide extra protection in areas of heavy runoff. It's also used to help protect the seams of the roof, where two areas meet. These areas, especially for roofs with multiple peaks and dormers, can be vulnerable to the weight of heavy snow or the deterioration of heavy rains. Chimneys and skylights are also more vulnerable for leaks, and these will also be reinforced with flashing. Adding new flashing comes after the underlayment application. Drip Edging and Ice Dam Protection All roofs require metal drip edging, which protects the foundation of the house. New metal drip edging is placed around the edge of the roof before the shingles or tiles are placed. If you live in a region like Minnesota, where you'll have a lot of ice and snow accumulation, then having properly installed ice dam projection will help prevent melting ice from backing up under the shingles. Let's Replace Your Roof! If your house is more than 10 years old, it may be time for a full roof replacement. Don't wait until you have roof damage from heavy Minnesota snows – call an expert roofing company now for an estimate and fair, fast service. For the best in residential roof replacement in Minneapolis MN , call Chad Markus at 763.537.5117 for a free roof analysis and quote.
Whenever you need to repair or install a new roof, it's a good idea to hire a Coon Rapids MN roofer for inspection or regular maintenance. Sometimes having a professional look at your roof situation might help. One thing to keep in mind is that some companies and independent contractors specialize in either roof repairs or roof installation. They might be good at installation, or they might be good at repairs, make sure to pick a roofer who caters to your needs.
Whenever you need to repair or install a new roof, it's a good idea to hire a Brooklyn Park MN roofer for inspection or regular maintenance. Sometimes having a professional look at your roof situation might help. One thing to keep in mind is that some companies and independent contractors specialize in either roof repairs or roof installation. They might be good at installation, or they might be good at repairs, make sure to pick a roofer who caters to your needs.
Whenever you need to repair or install a new roof, it's a good idea to hire a Medina MN roofer for inspection or regular maintenance. Sometimes having a professional look at your roof situation might help. One thing to keep in mind is that some companies and independent contractors specialize in either roof repairs or roof installation. They might be good at installation, or they might be good at repairs, make sure to pick a roofer who caters to your needs.
Whenever you need to repair or install a new roof, it's a good idea to hire a Maple Grove MN roofer for inspection or regular maintenance. Sometimes having a professional look at your roof situation might help. One thing to keep in mind is that some companies and independent contractors specialize in either roof repairs or roof installation. They might be good at installation, or they might be good at repairs, make sure to pick a roofer who caters to your needs.
When the topic of home improvement comes to mind, most people tend to think of painting their exteriors, remodeling their living rooms, or upgrading their bathrooms. While there isn’t a bad home improvement project idea, however, there’s one part of any house that every owner should consider looking at: the roof. It may not be as disposable as other fixtures at home, such as light bulbs and door handles, but a roof is not as long-lasting or eternal as high-quality concrete and well-connected structure. The main problem that concerns roofs, in general, is that people don’t know that they need to be replaced sooner or later, more so know when actually to change them. As your home’s first line of defense from natural conditions, such as hail, lightning, wind, and storms, it doesn’t take a genius to know that a roof can take quite a beating after a certain period. Fortunately, knowing when and why you should replace your roof is a task that only calls for awareness and a quick guide. To better understand the entire process of roof replacement and know your own roof better, let’s go over two potential questions that you may have in mind: “What affects the entire lifespan of my roof?” The longevity of any type of roof is determined with the help of several crucial factors, such as: 1. The quality of labor that was used during the roof installation One of the most important factors to consider when gauging the overall potential lifespan of any type of roof is the quality of work or labor that was put into installing the entire system. Labor quality plays a significant role in determining a roof’s lifespan because it is one of the two main direct factors that sets how long an entire system can last right off the bat. 2. The material of the roofing itself Another important factor to consider when gauging the overall lifespan of any type of roof is the type of material that it uses. Every roofing material option that’s currently available in the market has a specific expected lifespan that is inherent in its own composition. For instance, a laminated roofing shingle can last up to 30 years, while asphalt roofing shingles last between 15 until 18 years, and wood shingles hold its form anywhere between 30 to 45 years on average. 3. The weather conditions the roof is subject to As opposed to the first two factors that affect the overall lifespan of any roof, the weather conditions that an entire system is subject to plays a much more arbitrary role as its impact can depend on a wide range of details. Out of all the different weather-related details to consider, however, heat and humidity play the most significant role in determining the overall lifespan of your roof because they significantly affect the roof daily. In the case of Minnesota, however, heat and humidity may not be present, but other temperature conditions and effects, such as hail, snow, and snowstorms, can also significantly reduce the lifespan of a roof. “When should I replace my roof?” The main difficulty with determining when it’s time to replace your home’s roof lies in the fact that it can be quite subjective because of all the different factors that have to come into play. Aside from the average life expectancy of your roofing materials and build quality, you may have to give or take a few years according to any weather damage history, presence of minor leaks, and the likes. When it comes to accurately answering the question of when you should replace your roof, however, the most cost and time-effective way to do so is by calling a roofing professional to inspect your roof annually. Final words Knowing the answers to important questions about roof replacement can make a significant difference in saving a significant amount of money on avoidable repair and time spent on complete replacement jobs. If you’re looking to keep your roof in tip-top shape or currently suspect that it is in need of replacement, give Minnesota’s foremost roofing experts at Advanced Exteriors MN a call today!
Sidings are essential to homes for many reasons. It protects the house from rainfall, hail, winds, debris, and it also helps enhance the property's curb appeal. It also helps insulate the home, meaning that you'll save money in terms of lowering your energy bills. Of course, not all sidings are made equal, and only the high-quality ones are going to achieve the things we've just mentioned. If you're out looking for sidings to be installed at your home, pay attention. Here's what you'll need to consider when choosing the ride sidings for your property: 1. The Material When you begin your hunt for the best siding, you'll find out that there are plenty of different options. You'll find that they're made of all sorts of materials, such as plastic stone, aluminum, and vinyl. Vinyl is the most popular among all other materials due to its combination of convenience, reliability, and affordability. However, its aesthetics might put off some people. Wood is also a great choice, helping a home achieve that rustic look while still being durable. However, wood requires plenty of maintenance. Stones are the most robust materials, resistant to many problems like rotting. Unfortunately, they're costly. Which ones you'll choose will depend on what you need. Measure the advantages and disadvantages of each, along with the price tag, to find out which one suits your budget best and helps satisfy your needs. 2. The Weather As previously mentioned, sidings protect your home from the elements. Because of that, the sidings of choice should be made for the type of weather your location experiences regularly. For example, if where you live experiences high temperatures and a lot of rain, opt for a siding that can keep your home safe from both. If you experience freezing temperatures or intense sun, choose a siding that's appropriate for that kind of environment. Choose sidings with plenty of insulation, as well as UV protection from the sun as well. It'll help maintain a comfortable house to live in despite whatever's going on outside the house and help reduce your energy bills. 3. The Color Sidings also affect the looks of your home. Aesthetics alone can help boost your home's value by making it appealing to buyers. With that said, when you pick a siding, choose one that complements the looks of your home. Make sure it goes along well with your roof windows, trims, and any other external design aspects you might have to go for the home. After all, you wouldn't want to ruin a lovely monochrome grey and black house with a sudden dab of orange sidings. 4. The Contractor Other than being able to choose the right sidings for you, a contractor will ensure that the sidings are installed professionally, giving you the most amount of benefits. This is essential in ensuring that your home is well-protected with the sidings. Otherwise, your home might be in danger of all sorts of problems, such as water leaks, thanks to a poorly installed siding. Wrapping Up Choosing a siding might not be an easy task, but by considering the factors we've shared, you'll be able to pick one that's right for your home. If you can, we highly recommend working with a company that utilizes Royal Woodland sliders, as they're some of the best sidings you can ever find out there. We are professional siding contractors in Minneapolis , get in touch with us to see how we can help.