What to Ask Before Hiring a Shutter Repair Company
Choosing the right shutter repair company can mean the difference between a lasting fix and wasted money. After 35+ years in business, we know what separates quality repair services from the rest. Here are the critical questions to ask before hiring anyone to work on your shutters.
About Their Experience
"How long have you specialized in shutter repair?"
Why it matters: Shutter repair is a specialized skill. Companies that primarily install new shutters may lack the expertise to properly diagnose and repair existing ones.
Red flag: "We mostly do installations but can try repairs." Green flag: "We've specialized in shutter repair for X years" (minimum 5 years preferred)
"How many shutter repairs do you complete annually?"
Why it matters: Volume indicates expertise and reliability. A company doing 200+ repairs annually has seen virtually every problem and knows the best solutions.
Red flag: Hesitation or vague answers Green flag: Specific numbers showing regular repair work
"Do you repair all shutter brands and styles?"
Why it matters: Different manufacturers use different construction methods. A specialist should be familiar with most brands.
Red flag: "Only if they're a specific brand" Green flag: "We repair all major brands including..."
About Diagnosis and Estimates
"Do you offer free in-home assessments?"
Why it matters: Photos often don't tell the whole story. In-person assessment is necessary for accurate diagnosis.
Red flag: "Send us photos and we'll quote" (for major repairs) Green flag: "We'll come assess at no charge"
"Can you diagnose the root cause of the problem?"
Why it matters: Fixing symptoms without addressing causes leads to repeat problems.
Example: If louvers keep breaking, ask WHY. Is it a tilt rod issue? Humidity problem? Installation stress?
Red flag: "We'll just replace the broken parts" Green flag: "We'll identify and address the underlying issue"
"Will you provide a written estimate?"
Why it matters: Verbal estimates lead to disputes. Written estimates protect both parties.
Red flag: "We can give you a ballpark over the phone" Green flag: "We provide detailed written estimates including parts and labor"
About Their Work
"What is your warranty on repairs?"
Why it matters: Quality companies stand behind their work.
Red flag: No warranty or less than 90 days Green flag: Minimum 1-year warranty on labor and parts
"Can you provide references from recent repair customers?"
Why it matters: Past customers reveal reliability, quality, and customer service.
Red flag: "Check our website reviews" (could be filtered) Green flag: "Here are three recent customers you can contact directly"
"Are you licensed and insured?"
Why it matters: Protects you from liability if workers are injured or property is damaged.
Red flag: "We don't need licensing for repairs" Green flag: Provides specific license numbers and proof of insurance
About Pricing and Timeline
"What's included in your repair price?"
Why it matters: Some companies advertise low prices then add fees for travel, diagnosis, small parts, etc.
Red flag: Base price with many potential add-ons Green flag: "Our price includes diagnosis, labor, standard parts, and warranty"
"How soon can you complete the repair?"
Why it matters: Indicates capacity and efficiency.
Red flag: "We can fit you in next month" Green flag: "Most repairs within 3-5 business days"
"What if you find additional problems during repair?"
Why it matters: Establishes protocol for unexpected issues.
Red flag: "We'll just fix it and bill you" Green flag: "We'll contact you immediately for approval before any additional work"
About Materials and Methods
"Do you use original manufacturer parts or aftermarket?"
Why it matters: Quality and fit vary dramatically.
When to use original: For shutters under 10 years old or high-end brands When aftermarket is OK: Older shutters or discontinued models
Red flag: Only uses aftermarket regardless of shutter age Green flag: "We use manufacturer parts when available and quality aftermarket when not"
"Can you match my shutter color if painting/staining is needed?"
Why it matters: Color matching on repairs maintains appearance.
Red flag: "We'll get it close" Green flag: "We'll custom match your exact color"
Red Flags That Should Disqualify a Company
Avoid companies that:
- Pressure you to replace when repair is viable
- Can't or won't provide references
- Request full payment upfront
- Aren't properly licensed/insured
- Don't provide written estimates
- Claim "anyone can fix shutters"
- Quote without seeing the problem in person
- Offer "too good to be true" pricing
Green Flags That Indicate Quality
Look for companies that:
- Specialize in shutter repair (not just installation)
- Provide detailed written estimates
- Offer solid warranties (1+ years)
- Have numerous verifiable reviews
- Answer technical questions confidently
- Explain the "why" behind problems
- Give honest repair vs. replace advice
- Maintain professional communication
Questions We're Always Happy to Answer
At American Shutter Company, we welcome these questions because we have strong answers:
✓ "How do you determine if repair or replacement is better?" ✓ "What's the most common shutter problem in Houston?" ✓ "Can you show me examples of similar repairs?" ✓ "What happens if the repair doesn't solve the problem?" ✓ "Do you have any current customers I can call?"
The Most Important Question of All
"Will you be honest if replacement makes more sense than repair?"
This question reveals integrity. A company that profits from both repairs AND installations should give objective advice. If they always recommend their most profitable option over your best interest, find someone else.
Our answer: "Absolutely. We'll show you the math and explain when replacement is the smarter choice. We've built our reputation on honest recommendations."
Trust Your Gut
Beyond these questions, pay attention to:
- How they communicate (respectful? condescending?)
- Their professionalism (on time? organized?)
- Their facility (established business or working from truck?)
- Their knowledge (can they explain technical issues?)
If something feels off, it probably is.
Get Multiple Opinions for Major Repairs
For repairs over $500, get 2-3 estimates. Compare:
- Diagnosis accuracy
- Proposed solutions
- Pricing transparency
- Warranty terms
- Overall professionalism
The cheapest isn't always the best value; the most expensive isn't always the highest quality.
Ready to Ask the Right Questions?
American Shutter Company has been answering Houston homeowners' questions for over 35 years. We welcome your inquiries, provide transparent estimates, and give honest advice—even when it means less business for us.
Call (281) 441-7998 to schedule your free assessment. We'll answer every question on this list and any others you have.