Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the most important questions to ask when shopping for replacement windows?
A. We’ve developed a list of five core questions to ask your window contractor before signing any contract.
- What credentials and insurance coverage does the contractor have? Ask if the contractor is properly licensed. Does the contractor have liability insurance? Are all workers covered under the WSIB?
- What is the quality of the product used? Find out whether the window, including component parts, was manufactured offshore or in North America. Ask if it is Energy Star rated, and for what climate zone. Ask about the warranty, and if it is transferable to the next homeowner. For vinyl windows, make sure that only virgin material is used. Ask to see a cut-away view of the window profile. Does it look sturdy? Are there multiple chambers inside to increase insulation value and structural strength? Are the components used strong enough to stand the test of time? What type of Low E glass is being used? Is it suitable for your application? What type of gas, if any, is sealed between the glass? What method of glazing seal is used on the unit and from the unit to the window frame? Windows are subjected to a number of independent ratings tests. How does the window your contractor is recommending score on CAN/CSA-A440-M90 & ER tests? As a customer, you need to feel confident that your window contractor has chosen manufacturers and products for the right reasons.
- Who does the installation? Are the installers employees or subcontractors? How long have they been with the company? What training have they received to ensure they install each window to maximize its performance, including energy efficiency? The highest quality window is not energy efficient if it’s poorly installed. By asking these questions you can protect your window investment and help ensure many years of energy savings and enjoyment.
- Will I be taken care of after the job is complete? Ask questions about workmanship warranties, service standards and whether the company services what it sells. If there’s a problem you need to know that the company installing your windows will look after you when the job is complete and for years to come.
- How was I treated by the sales team? Did you feel listened to? Or were your questions handled in a superficial way? Was the information you received backed up by documented evidence? Or was the salesperson making unfounded verbal statements? Did the consultation leave you feeling more knowledgeable? Or do you feel more confused now than before? Was there timely and comprehensive follow up? Or did you feel pressured to make a decision? Your experience with the sales team is a good indication of the company’s approach to customer service. If you didn’t feel comfortable with your salesperson, think twice about signing a contract.
Q. Once I’ve signed a contract, how soon can my new window or door be installed?
A. While we do our best to complete our installation within your ideal time frame, we are committed to providing realistic time estimates and will keep you in the loop as to manufacturing and installation schedules. Once you’ve signed a contract, we will send a measuring crew to your home to get the exact dimensions of the window or door you are purchasing. Then we place your order with the manufacturer. We always provide customers with an estimated date of installation and confirm this date a week or so before we are due to arrive. Most window and door jobs are completed in one day. Our busiest time of year is usually September and our quietest time of year is late winter. If you have the flexibility to order your windows or doors in January or February, installation will happen more quickly.
Q. What kind of warranty does Jensen Windows offer?
A. We offer a comprehensive five year warranty on labour plus the manufacturer’s warranty, which varies from ten years to a fully transferable lifetime warranty. Make sure to discuss warranties with any window company that quotes on your job.
Q. Is Jensen Windows a member of the Better Business Bureau?
A. Yes, Jensen Windows is a Better Business Bureau accredited company with an A+ rating and zero customer complaints.
Q. If I have Jensen Windows do work on my home, am I eligible for any government tax rebates or grants?
A. As of October 2009, there is one grant program available to Canadians who renovate their homes. Jensen Windows is very familiar with this program and will help to ensure that work is completed in accordance with program requirements. The EcoENERGY Retrofit grant program is a Federal initiative that provides grants up to $5,000 to help offset the cost of energy efficiency improvements to your home. The program requires a homeowner to have a residential energy efficiency assessment performed on his or her home prior to any renovations being undertaken. Renovations must then be completed within 18 months following the assessment. The Ontario government will match any Federal grant issued. To be eligible for a grant, any window or door installed must be Energy Star qualified for your climatic zone. The grant for each new window or door is $80 ($40 Federal grant plus $40 Provincial grant). More information on this program is available here.
Q. If I’m replacing a large number of windows in my home, will Jensen Windows offer me a bulk discount?
A. Yes, Jensen Windows can discount orders of windows in quantities of 10 or more. Our recommendation to homeowners, however, is to start with one replacement window. Experience our customer service, installation expertise and the quality of the products we use. Then you can order a larger quantity of windows from us with confidence.
