Should I Get Three Estimates for Windows or Siding?

Is Three Estimates a Good Rule?

Three estimates can give homeowners a useful range of prices and approaches.

It can also help you identify an estimate that is unusually high or unusually low.

But there is nothing magical about the number three.

If you find a highly qualified local contractor, understand the products being proposed, verify the company's reputation, and are comfortable with the scope and price, you do not necessarily need to keep collecting estimates simply to reach a certain number.

More Estimates Do Not Automatically Mean a Better Decision

There is a point where additional estimates can create more confusion instead of more clarity.

One contractor may sell primarily on price. Another may focus on product quality. Another may include more detailed installation work.

If every company is quoting a different product and scope, comparing five or six estimates can become an exercise in comparing numbers that do not mean the same thing.

A better goal is to get enough information to understand the market and then compare the strongest options carefully.

Start by Comparing the Exact Product

The first thing to compare is not the total price. It is the product.

For replacement windows, compare:

• Manufacturer and product series
• Double-pane or triple-pane glass
• Low-E coatings
• Gas fill
• Frame and sash construction
• U-factor and other energy ratings
• Hardware
• Interior and exterior colors
• Manufacturer warranty

For siding, compare:

• Manufacturer and product line
• Material type
• Vinyl thickness or metal gauge
• Profile and exposure
• Locking system
• Nail-hem construction
• Color and texture
• Accessories and trim
• Manufacturer warranty

If those specifications are different, the prices should be different too.

Compare the Installation, Not Just the Product

Two contractors can quote the exact same window or siding product and still provide very different installations.

Ask what is included in the labor and preparation.

For windows, that may include:

• Removal of the existing window
• Opening preparation
• Insulation around the new unit
• Exterior sealing and flashing
• Interior trim
• Exterior aluminum capping or trim
• Cleanup and disposal

For siding, ask about:

• Tear-off of existing siding
• Sheathing inspection
• Housewrap or weather-resistant barrier
• Flashing details
• Window and door trim
• Soffit and fascia work
• Mounting accessories
• Cleanup and disposal

The Lowest Estimate May Simply Include Less

A dramatically lower estimate should lead to questions, not an automatic signature.

Find out what is different.

The lower price may come from:

• A less expensive product
• A thinner siding panel
• A different glass package
• Less trim work
• No removal of existing materials
• Less wall preparation
• Fewer accessories
• A shorter workmanship warranty
• Different service after installation

None of those differences automatically make the estimate wrong. They simply mean you should know what you are giving up in exchange for the lower price.

The Highest Estimate Is Not Automatically Better Either

Price alone does not prove quality in either direction.

A higher price should be supported by something you can identify, such as a better product, more complete installation, additional trim, better glass, upgraded accessories, stronger warranties, or more extensive service.

If a contractor cannot clearly explain why the estimate is higher, keep asking questions.

Compare Manufacturer Warranties Carefully

A long warranty can sound impressive, but warranties are not all written the same way.

Ask:

• What parts are covered?
• Is the coverage prorated?
• Does the warranty cover labor?
• Is it transferable?
• What exclusions apply?
• Who helps with a warranty claim?

Do not assume two products are equivalent simply because both use the word "lifetime."

Compare Workmanship Warranties Separately

The manufacturer typically covers the product. The contractor is responsible for the installation.

That makes the contractor's workmanship protection an important part of the estimate.

Suburban Construction Inc. backs its installations with a lifetime workmanship guarantee.

When comparing estimates, ask every company how long they stand behind their installation and what happens if you need service later.

Verify the Contractor's Reputation

Price tells you what a contractor is charging today. Reputation tells you more about how the company has treated customers over time.

Check independent reviews, business history, local presence, and accreditation.

Suburban Construction Inc. is a BBB Accredited Business with an A+ BBB rating.

View Suburban Construction Inc.'s BBB Business Profile

Ask How Long the Contractor Has Been Local

Windows and siding are long-term improvements. It is reasonable to ask whether the company selling them is likely to be around when you need service.

Suburban Construction Inc. has served the Quad Cities since 1985 and has completed more than 40,000 installations.

You can learn more about Suburban's local history on our company story page .

See the Products Before Comparing Prices

Some product differences are easier to understand in person than on a proposal.

With windows, operate the sash, look at the frame, compare glass packages, and see the hardware.

With siding, compare panel rigidity, thickness, texture, profile depth, colors, and trim.

Suburban Construction maintains a showroom at 3602 North Harrison Street in Davenport where homeowners can see replacement windows, siding, doors, and other exterior products before making a decision.

Learn more about our Quad Cities showroom .

Do Not Let "Today Only" Pricing Make the Decision for You

One reason homeowners feel they need multiple estimates is that some sales presentations make pricing unnecessarily difficult to understand.

Be cautious when a large price suddenly drops only if you sign immediately.

You should be able to understand the product, scope of work, warranty, and final price without being pressured into making a decision before you are comfortable.

Suburban Construction offers free, no-pressure estimates so homeowners have the opportunity to understand their options before signing.

When Is One Estimate Enough?

There are situations where a homeowner may feel comfortable moving forward after one estimate.

That may be reasonable when:

• You already know and trust the contractor
• The company's reputation is well established
• You understand the exact product being installed
• The estimate is detailed and complete
• You understand both warranties
• The price fits your expectations and budget
• You have seen the products and understand your options
• You feel no pressure to sign

Getting additional estimates is always an option, but it should help answer questions rather than simply satisfy a rule.

When Should You Definitely Get Another Estimate?

Consider getting another opinion if:

• The proposal is vague
• The contractor will not identify the product
• You do not understand what is included
• The price seems unusually high or low
• You are being pressured to sign immediately
• Warranty explanations are unclear
• The contractor cannot provide a verifiable local history
• You are uncomfortable with the company or salesperson

A second or third estimate can help you determine whether your concerns are valid.