How To Choose a Window Company in Carson
Each window installer has specialized offerings and approaches. To simplify the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to upgrading your windows, value is paramount. Each window you purchase should deliver top-notch durability at a fair price point. Choosing budget windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The overall cost of your replacement windows will rely on the specific sizes, materials, and styles you need. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. An installer can help you with picking the solutions that fit your needs.
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 | $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 choose a window material. Homeowners frequently choose a material based on the local climate, aesthetic preferences and energy efficiency objectives. 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 contractor you're considering about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you understand the overall expenses involved in the project.
Experience and Training
The longer a window installer has served your area, the better its workmanship will likely be. Call a company representative to learn more about its experience, guarantees, and public and private credentials. Company websites often keep photo galleries showcasing previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
A California window business must be licensed as a General Building Contractor, Window Coverings Contractor and Glazing Contractor if it handles jobs valued at over $500. Each certification has its own test and work requirements. If a contractor is caught working without a license, they'll have to pay steep fines.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window contractors offer the same window styles and materials. Find one that specializes 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
One of the easiest ways to vet a company is to check what other customers have said about their experiences. You can find customer reviews on websites like Yelp, the BBB, Trustpilot, and Google. 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 Carson
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
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 upgrading to new, more efficient windows, you can enhance your home's energy efficiency and lower your electricity bills.
Does window replacement involve pulling permits?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- "visible transmittance," which indicates how much light can enter through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which tells you how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which determines how well a window can resist moisture (the higher the number, the better)
- "Air leakage," which evaluates how easy it is for air drafts to develop (the lower the number, the better)
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
