Even when you're a contractor, finding and choosing the best window manufacturer for you to team up with can be overwhelming. That's why we've prepared an easy-to-follow 6-step guide to help you find the right fit.
B - Browse Online
As a private contractor, you probably understand the importance of the Internet for drumming up business. But did you know that careful search techniques and selective clicking are important to finding a reliable business?
The best search words to find a local window manufacturer are "window manufacturer" or "new windows" or "replacement windows" along with the name of your city or province. Once the results come up, ignore all the results that say "ad" or "sponsored" and scroll to the list of results that have organically popped up. These will be companies that naturally fit your search criteria without having paid to be highlighted.
E – Evaluate Several Websites
Since they are in the business of building, contractors might only need to visit 3 to 5 websites, while individual homeowners may feel more confident visiting 5 to 10 websites from their search results. Once on the websites, evaluate the manufacturers' professionalism and relevance to your needs (i.e. type of window, location, etc.). On the websites, look for:
T – Track Down Testimonials
Go beyond the window manufacturers' websites and look for reviews across various platforms like Google, Yelp, and local business directories. This feedback is not curated, so it can give you valuable insights into customer satisfaction and the company's reputation. Of course, these platforms can also be places for venting grievances and complaining, so be careful about how much stock you put into them.
Contractors might seek out the advice of other contractors, while homeowners might ask manufacturers for a list of references and addresses of previous jobs once they have narrowed down their choice of window manufacturers and meet with representatives from the company.
H – Head to the Showroom
It's always helpful to see the product you will be installing, so try to visit the manufacturer's showroom to evaluate their products' quality firsthand. A visit also allows you to gauge the company's professionalism and interactions with others. Remember that an impressive showroom isn't essential, but product samples and polite, knowledgeable staff are crucial.
E – Ensure the Company Has What You Want
While searching online and visiting showrooms, be sure to inquire about the types of windows the company manufactures. Do they have the type you want (including frames, energy efficiency, glazing, etc.)? If not, what do they offer instead? Gather product specs from all the window manufacturers you visit so you and your clients can compare apples to apples.
L - Look at Longevity and Local Knowledge
Consider the company's history in general and in your area in particular. Contractors may already know that a minimum of three years in the industry indicates the beginning of a well-rooted company, while a company established in a community indicates they are knowledgeable about local climate conditions and energy efficiency requirements.
Choose BethelIf you're a contractor in Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, or elsewhere in Southeastern Alberta, you can count on Bethel Windows & Doors in Coaldale to provide you with quality products and services – we've been doing so since 1960. Call or visit us today.