>>There's something to be said for getting work like this done through Home Depot, Sears etc. - they pre-screen contractors and offer some sort of accountability.
>>
>>All other things being equal, they'll cost a little more, though.
>
>A little more than what, I wonder. I've seen the prices of contract work offered with a few things - "we can mount it for you for only..." and then it turns out to be their own select contractors. I've bought outside doors for $200, and their labor would cost $300. So we fit the two doors for $400 instead of $1000. Now maybe other (non-screened) contractor would cost only $270, I wouldn't know. I'd still love to get $300 for one hour's work.

Well, it's too late for your current job. But, for your next job maybe you could make Home Depot one of the 3 quotes you get before you pick one.