How To Choose a Window Company in Altadena
Trustworthiness is crucial when it comes to choosing a window installer. However, your chosen company should also align with your priorities and appreciate your vision. Consider the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's important to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing budget windows could actually raise your overall cost, due to their shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, in addition to the materials, sizes, and styles of replacement windows you select, can impact pricing. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. A window expert can help you with selecting the solutions that fit your needs.
To help you form a rough estimate, this table shows the typical cost of the most common residential window types.
Window Types | Average Cost |
---|---|
Arched | $243-$1495 |
Awning | $352-$981 |
Bay | $812-$6025 |
Custom | $361-$1004 |
Casement | $281-$1629 |
Double-hung | $131-$848 |
Egress | $241-$601 |
Glass Block | $48-$609 |
Picture | $211-$1562 |
Single-hung | $95-$1606 |
Skylight | $120-$1450 |
Sliding | $276-$1405 |
Storm | $57-$397 |
Transom | $294-$615 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners usually base their decision on aesthetic preferences, energy efficiency objectives and the local climate. Aluminum windows are perfect for sleek, modern designs, but they cost more up-front. You'll pay less for wood windows up-front, but you'll need to invest in regular maintenance to prevent the frame from wear and warping. Vinyl is readily available and tends to cost less, but don't underestimate its strong durability and low maintenance needs.
Window Types | Average Cost |
---|---|
Aluminum | $57-$1606 |
Composite | $580-$1303 |
Fiberglass | $95-$812 |
Vinyl | $195-$1807 |
Wood | $290-$1629 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each window installer you're considering about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you gain a complete understanding of the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
The longer a window provider has served your area, the better its workmanship will likely be. Call a company representative to learn more about its experience, public and private credentials, and guarantees. Company websites often have photo galleries demonstrating previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
A California window provider must be licensed as a Glazing Contractor, General Building Contractor and Window Coverings Contractor if it performs jobs valued at over $500. Each license has its own test and experience requirements. If a contractor is caught working without a license, they'll have to pay steep fines.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window companies offer the same window styles and materials. Find one that's an expert in the type you want for your home.
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Crank-out
- Custom
- Double- or single-hung
- Egress
- Garden
- Jalousie
- Picture
- Sliding
- Skylight
- Specialty
- Storm
- Transom
- Vent
Customer Feedback
Perhaps the best way to evaluate window companies for your job is to see what previous customers have said about them. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Trustpilot, Yelp, and the BBB Ask people you know who have used the company you're interested in, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Altadena
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
What is the maintenance schedule for an average window, and how long will it last?
Will my window company install blinds?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.