Some Experts Consider this the Best Window in the World

Exactly which windows do the experts think are the best in the business? According to Window & Door Magazine’s 2008 Rankings, it was Marvin Wood Windows hands down. These are wood interior windows with aluminum clading on the exterior. The good news is that these windows are all custom made with over 8 species of woods from which to choose and over 16 exterior colors. Conversely most vinyl windows come in two colors: white or tan (almond). If a homeowner has a heritage home or a very strict homeowners association that requires very specific colors, the Marvin window is the premiere window in the industry. But if a homeowner is looking for energy-efficiency AND value, most of the time a high quality vinyl window is the way to go.  But don’t be fooled by contractor-grade products carried at those big box home improvement stores or by products sold on the idea of the lowest price or you will get what you paid for and no guarantees that they are installed by a certified master installer protecting your lifetime warranties.  Of course anything is better than single or dual-pane aluminum windows when it comes to energy savings and in-home comfort. But if  long-term value and quality installation are high are high on your priority list, trust a company that carries a variety of products designed to meet your needs and not what needs to be sold. For more information see www.custom-exteriors.com

There is a pretty simple way that can help you choose the best contractor for you

Is it really necessary to replace your old windows & doors? And what about finding the right licensed contractor for those windows and doors? There is a pretty simple way that can help you choose.

Of course, you still have a little homework to do regarding proper credentials such as:

• a valid contractor license
• an enforceable workman’s comp insurance policy
• a sufficient general liability insurance policy
• customer referrals
• AND written guarantees

A great way to gauge the professionalism of a company and to compare with others is the simple HOME SHOW test. Not only is this a great way to see all of the latest home improvement products but it is a terrific place to see a variety of companies in action. The Bay Area has many. The Winter Shows have now past but the Spring season opens with the Contra Costa Home & Garden the first weekend in April. That show is closely followed by Shows in Santa Clara, Napa, Solano, San Jose, San Francisco and Marin. Custom Exteriors has had a quality presence at the major home shows during it’s 12 year history and 2009 is no exception. Any frequent visitors can attest that there are window & door companies that come and go every year. We encourage you to visit the many displays, enjoy some how-to seminars and taste some great food. Oh, and be sure to ask any contractor how long they have been showcasing their products at the show and do they have customer referrals before you hire anyone. Happy shopping!

Custom Exteriors HQ 440 Boulder Court, Suite 400, Pleasanton California 94566 | 888-957-7800

Why are there more consumer complaints filed every year against Contractors?

Welcome to the very first anti-rant about how to choose the right contractor for you. The first rule is to check out the credentials. Don’t waste your time with any discussion unless the contractor can show you a current and valid license (make sure it’s for the work you want done and check them out on the State Contractor License Board); have a current and enforceable workman’s comp and General Liability policies that are beyond the minimum requirements; it never hurts to be highly recommended by the BBB, Diamond Certified, Angie’s List and others; do they have references near your home and are they satisfied; do they have their own crews or do they use contractors. If it’s the latter, how do they protect you if you are not paying them directly and getting lien releases. Lastly, insist on talking to an owner for those large jobs and ask what the guarantees are for materials and labor. More later on How to Avoid Hiring the Wrong Contractor for your Home Improvement Project.