Have dreams of remodeling your home? Maybe transforming the kitchen upgrading the bathroom or getting new windows? Some of these projects you can do on your own. But others require the help of a professional. We understand that putting home remodeling in the hands of someone else is both exciting and distressing. But it can be invaluable when you hire a reliable contractor, especially for quality replacement windows in Portland, OR. Here are a few key traits to watch for:

1. They Love Their Job

Passion and enthusiasm are contagious. They are also easy to spot. They approach each project with fresh eyes and new possibilities, even if they have done similar projects a dozen times before. So while you discuss your home improvements with different contractors, look for true enthusiasm. Find someone who sees your project as an opportunity to display their best work and not as an assignment or a chore.

2. Treat Your Home as if it’s Their Own

When meeting with a contractor you should feel that the options they suggest for you are things they would consider in their own home. And as they work with you they should be honest and respectful, answering any question you might have about products, installation, and warranties. They should also be clear in their explanations. And lastly, at the end of the project, though your home was a job site, the areas where they worked should be left neat and tidy.

3. They are Factory-Trained and Solutions-Oriented

With experience and training comes true knowledge. A well-trained and practiced contractor will know everything from up-front planning to project finalization. They will know the manufacturers’ products inside out. They will also know how to plot out work-around solutions for any challenges like handling broken windows that might come up.

4. They Listen and Take Notes

Nothing is more frustrating than realizing everything you spoke to your contractor about simply went in one ear and straight out the other. Instead, you want a contractor who takes thorough notes about your renovation project to help you embrace your vision and surpass your expectations. And at the end of each conversation, a great contractor will recap the highlights to make sure they understand and are ready to proceed with the next steps.

5. They Don’t Hire Out Subcontractors

The lead contractor is only as good as their crew. You don’t want to hire a contractor and find out later that they subcontract out for the installation. It is better when a window company has its own crew of installers who all receive the same training and work by the same ethics.

6. They are Flexible

Not physically flexible, but that can help. No, you want a professional window contractor who knows how to navigate the difficulties and obstacles that often crop up on the worksite. They should be able to handle unexpected issues that can come from tearing open a wall to find moisture damage or mold. Anything can happen, and having someone who has seen it all will make all the difference.

So how do you know if you have the right contractor for new windows replacement in Portland, OR? You start with a little research. Ask around and get references from a handful of different companies until you find one that is the right fit for your needs.