Man, I totally get what you mean about the trust issues. I replaced my windows last summer and felt like I was signing away my sanity with every check. The contractor was actually great, but I still kept a folder with every scrap of paperwork and a ridiculous number of “just in case” photos. It’s wild how much of this stuff feels like crossing your fingers and hoping for the best. At least you’re being careful—better that than getting burned.
Yeah, I totally relate—felt like I needed a lawyer just to read the payment schedule. We did a third up front, another third when the windows arrived, and the rest after install. Still took a ton of photos, just in case something got weird. I probably annoyed the crew with all my questions, but I’d rather be that person than end up regretting it. It’s wild how something as basic as new windows turns into such a trust exercise.