Crooks & Sons: A South Carolina Window and Door Installer
Who Crooks & Sons is and what they install
Crooks & Sons is a window and door installation company operating in South Carolina. They handle replacement windows, entry doors, and related exterior work for residential properties. The company works directly with homeowners on projects ranging from single-window replacements to full-home exterior updates.
If you found this page while researching window installation options in South Carolina, Crooks & Sons is one contractor to consider among several in the state. This guide describes what you should know about any window installer before hiring, and what questions to ask when you contact them.
Key Takeaways
- Crooks & Sons is a South Carolina-based window and door contractor that works on residential replacement projects.
- Before hiring any window installer, you should verify their licensing, insurance, and references from recent jobs in your area.
- Window replacement costs vary widely based on the number of windows, frame material, and whether structural work is needed.
- Most reputable installers offer written estimates, warranties on both materials and labor, and a timeline before work begins.
- Getting multiple estimates from different contractors helps you compare pricing and understand what is included in each quote.
What to verify before you hire any window installer
South Carolina requires contractors to be licensed through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SCDHEC). Before you contact Crooks & Sons or any installer, ask for their license number and verify it on the state website. A valid license means the contractor has met basic training and insurance requirements.
Request proof of current liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. If a worker is injured on your property or damage occurs during installation, your homeowner's insurance may not cover it—the contractor's insurance should. Ask for the names and phone numbers of three recent customers in your county or nearby, and call them to ask about the quality of work, whether the job stayed on schedule, and whether they would hire the company again.
Get a written estimate that breaks down the cost of materials, labor, and any additional work like removing old windows or repairing the frame. The estimate should include the brand and model of windows, the frame material (vinyl, wood, aluminum, fiberglass), and the warranty terms. Do not rely on a phone quote or a handwritten note—a professional contractor will provide a detailed written proposal.
Understanding window replacement costs in South Carolina
Window replacement is not a fixed-price service. The total cost depends on how many windows you are replacing, what material you choose, the size and style of each window, and whether your home needs structural repairs before installation. A single replacement window costs less than replacing ten windows, and vinyl frames cost less than wood or fiberglass.
South Carolina's climate—hot, humid summers and mild winters—affects which window types perform best. Energy-efficient windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings reduce cooling costs in summer and are popular in the state. These cost more upfront but may lower your utility bills. Ask any installer, including Crooks & Sons, to explain the difference between standard and energy-efficient options and what the long-term savings might look like for your home.
Labor costs also vary. If your windows are in good condition and the frames are square and level, installation is straightforward. If the frames are rotted, the openings are uneven, or the home has settled, the installer may need to do additional carpentry work, which increases the price. This is why a site visit and written estimate are essential—a contractor cannot give you an accurate price over the phone.
What warranties and guarantees should cover
A reputable window installer offers two separate warranties: one from the window manufacturer (covering the glass, frame, and hardware) and one from the installer (covering the labor and installation quality). The manufacturer's warranty typically lasts 10 to 20 years, depending on the product. The installation warranty should cover at least one year, though many contractors offer longer terms.
Ask what the warranties cover. Do they include replacement if the window fails, or only repair? Are there conditions—such as improper maintenance or damage from storms—that void the warranty? Get the warranty terms in writing before you sign a contract. If a window leaks or fails within the warranty period, you want to know exactly who to contact and what the company will do to fix it.
How to compare estimates from multiple contractors
Contact at least two or three window installers in your area and request written estimates for the same project. This means the same number of windows, the same style and material, and the same scope of work. When the estimates arrive, compare them line by line. A significantly lower price may mean the contractor is using lower-quality materials, cutting corners on installation, or planning to upsell you once work begins.
A significantly higher price may reflect better materials, a longer warranty, or a contractor with a strong reputation and steady work. Neither extreme is automatically better—the goal is to understand what you are paying for. Ask each contractor to explain any major differences in their estimate compared to the others.
Once you choose a contractor, confirm the start date, expected completion date, and what happens if the job takes longer than planned. Ask whether they will protect your landscaping and interior during installation, and what cleanup they will do when finished. These details should be in your written contract before work begins.
Common problems to watch for during installation
Poor installation can ruin even high-quality windows. Common issues include gaps between the window frame and the wall (which let in air and water), improper sealing or caulking, and windows that do not open or close smoothly. Before the contractor leaves, inspect each window to make sure it operates correctly and there are no visible gaps or cracks in the caulk.
If you notice problems within the warranty period, contact the installer immediately with photos. A professional contractor will return to fix the work at no cost. If they refuse or delay, this is a sign you should have checked references more carefully before hiring. This is another reason why asking previous customers about their experience matters—they can tell you whether the company stands behind its work.
Finding other window installers to compare
South Carolina has many window and door contractors. To find others in your area, search online for "window replacement near [your city]" or ask neighbors and friends for recommendations. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) website lists contractors by location and shows customer reviews and complaint history. Local home improvement stores often have contractor referral lists as well.
When you contact any installer, ask the same questions: license number, insurance proof, references, and a written estimate. This consistency makes it easier to compare your options fairly. You are not obligated to hire the first contractor you call, and getting multiple quotes is standard practice in the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a window replacement usually take?
A single window typically takes one to three hours to replace. A full-home project with multiple windows may take several days to a week, depending on the number of windows and whether structural repairs are needed. Your contractor should give you a timeline in the written estimate.
Do I need a permit for window replacement in South Carolina?
Permit requirements vary by city and county. Some areas require a permit for any exterior work; others do not. Ask your contractor whether a permit is needed for your project. If one is required, the contractor should handle obtaining it, though the cost may be added to your bill.
What is the difference between vinyl and wood windows?
Vinyl windows are affordable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient. Wood windows look traditional and can be painted or stained, but require regular maintenance to prevent rot and weather damage. Fiberglass and aluminum are other options. Your contractor can explain which works best for your home's style and your budget.
Can I replace just one window, or do I have to replace them all?
You can replace windows one at a time or in groups. Replacing all windows at once may may have access to you for a bulk discount, but there is no requirement to do so. Discuss your timeline and budget with the contractor.
What should I do if I am unhappy with the installation?
Contact the contractor in writing (email or letter) and describe the problem with photos if possible. Reference the warranty terms from your contract. If the contractor does not respond or refuses to fix the issue, file a complaint with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation or the Better Business Bureau.