Is do-it-yourself window replacement a bad idea?

The answer to this question depends on how handy you are, how much time you have, and how well you trust yourself. Most people, after carefully thinking through the decision, have landed on the side of calling up a window contractor. Here’s why.  

• Doing it yourself takes a long time. Unless you have a lot of time on your hands and can afford to be off work for several days, don’t do it. Professional window contractors employ the manpower of a whole team of installers. Without a team of friends to help you, window installation will take a very long time.
• You need the right tools. While most of the tools required to install windows are relatively commonplace, you may not already own the right equipment, which means that you'll have to buy or borrow them. Window contractors are prepared with the tools, usually high-quality tools specifically designed for window installation, to get the job done right.
• Window replacement requires skill and experience. Window contractors have done it hundreds of times. You probably haven’t. They can leverage that skill and experience on your behalf, whereas you may be having a go at window installation for the first time.
• You run the risk of multiple problems. Any worthwhile window contractor will be licensed, bonded and insured. Most of them also offer guarantees on the quality of their work. As capable as you are, you will not have the same protection if you do it yourself. If they break it, they’ll pay to fix it. If you break it, guess who pays for it.
• For more information on do it yourselfing: Visit DoItYourself.com - The Leading Home Improvement and Remodeling Website Featuring the Internet's Largest Hardware Superstore