Window installed (Greenhouse/Garden)
I paid Gem $4,000 for their Greenhouse window, with ~ $1,500 being the cost of window.
They were repeatedly told it should be at 36 inch standard counter height. However, they measured it at 33 inch height. Thus my $4,000 window actually starts 3 inches below my kitchen counter, which it sits against.
Gem salesperson promoted side-window openings. Unfortunately the cranks to open these windows are very difficult to reach because they are behind the kitchen counter. Also, the cranks are 3 inches below the counter top, which makes it impossible to crank. Thus, these side windows I paid extra for, are unusable. I feel the salesperson should have relayed this to me when promoting the feature, since he came to my house and knew precisely my kitchen counter plans.
Also, the window locking mechanisms for these same side windows, are not reachable unless sitting on the kitchen counter. In Gem's defence, they did suggest I go into their showroom to look around. Unfortunately, I relied on the salesperson in my home and the brochures he walked me through. I wish I had gone to the showroom, although I'm still not sure I would have thought about reaching across my kitchen counter to access the windows. Hopefully you will now, after this review. If there is no counter between you and the window, then these side window openings are a nice feature.
Because of the visual and practical obstacles on the $4,000 window 3 inches below counter height, I was upset and left many messages for a call back, which went unanswered.
Finally, I took pictures and arranged a meeting with one of the owners, Jim, to show him my predicament. I believe a company can be judged by how they handle difficult circumstances. And to Jims' credit, he met with me. And we negotiated a resolution that met with our mutual satisfaction.
To this date, approximately 2.5 years later, there have been a few minor issues with window locks. Though this does not happen often, I can say that each time, GEM / Jim stands behind his lifetime warranty, and promptly arranges a free GEM service person to remedy the situation.
- Approximate cost of services:
- $4,000.00
- What could this company do to improve their services?
- I want the window replaced for standard counter height 36 inches as originally discussed, now 36.5 inches becuase granite has already been installed. I don't want side panels so deduct this cost and feature. For $4,000, i want install to include finishing to casings, which I have on-site. For $4,000, a glass shelf costing ~ $85-100 should be included.