How To Choose a Window Company in Fairhope
Each window installer has unique offerings and approaches. To ease the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a substantial investment, so balancing cost with quality is important. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The style, size, and material of your new windows play the largest role in determining your final cost. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. If you're undecided, a window specialist can help you figure out which options are best for your home.
In this table, you can find cost data for the most common residential window types to determine how much you might pay.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $209-$1283 |
| Awning | $302-$842 |
| Bay | $697-$5171 |
| Custom | $310-$861 |
| Casement | $241-$1398 |
| Double-hung | $112-$727 |
| Egress | $206-$516 |
| Glass Block | $41-$523 |
| Picture | $181-$1340 |
| Single-hung | $81-$1379 |
| Skylight | $103-$1244 |
| Sliding | $237-$1206 |
| Storm | $49-$340 |
| Transom | $252-$528 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might choose a material based on your desired look, your energy efficiency goals, and the local climate. For example, wood windows can give your home an organic design without breaking the bank, but you'll have to invest more toward maintenance. Aluminum and composite windows cost more up-front, but they're incredibly durable against the elements, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $49-$1379 |
| Composite | $497-$1118 |
| Fiberglass | $81-$697 |
| Vinyl | $167-$1551 |
| Wood | $248-$1398 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your contractor will factor the price for your windows and the value of their services into its total estimate. Make sure to assess the cost of installation, guarantees, and any other extra expenses that your project may need.
Experience and Training
The longer a window provider has served your area, the better its workmanship will likely be. Talk with a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, experience, and public and private credentials. Company websites often have photo galleries demonstrating previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
Alabama requires window installation businesses making over $50,000 on residential work to have a license. The state's Licensing Board for General Contractors establishes guidelines and administers examinations.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you prefer should influence your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will tell more about the window types it deals with, such as:
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Crank-out
- Custom
- Double- or single-hung
- Egress
- Garden
- Jalousie
- Picture
- Sliding
- Skylight
- Specialty
- Storm
- Transom
- Vent
Customer Feedback
One of the best ways to vet a company is to see what other customers have written about their experiences. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Google, the BBB, and Yelp Speak with people you know who have used a company you're interested in, and ask a representative for a copy of its reference list.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Fairhope
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
The U.S. Department of Energy states that 25%–30% of a home's heating and cooling capacity is used to compensate for heat gain and heat loss through windows. By purchasing new, more efficient windows, you can boost your home's energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills.
Does window replacement involve pulling permits?
My window screen tore. How should I fix it?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
