How To Choose a Window Company in East Palo Alto
It's essential to find a window replacement company that meets your specific values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following points during your hunt:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to replacing your windows, value is key. Each window you purchase should offer maximum durability at a reasonable price point. Although high-quality windows may cost more upfront, they often yield better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The final cost of your window replacement will rely on the specific sizes, styles, and materials you need. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. An installer can guide you through selecting the solutions that fit your preferences.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $271-$1667 |
| Awning | $393-$1095 |
| Bay | $906-$6721 |
| Custom | $403-$1120 |
| Casement | $313-$1817 |
| Double-hung | $146-$945 |
| Egress | $268-$671 |
| Glass Block | $53-$680 |
| Picture | $235-$1742 |
| Single-hung | $106-$1792 |
| Skylight | $134-$1618 |
| Sliding | $308-$1568 |
| Storm | $63-$443 |
| Transom | $328-$687 |
Window Material Cost
Replacement window prices also vary based on material. Each option offers unique advantages depending on your climate and energy-saving goals. Fiberglass and vinyl are readily-available materials, so they tend to cost less. Likewise, aluminum and composites look sleek and stay strong against the elements, so they tend to cost more.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $63-$1792 |
| Composite | $647-$1453 |
| Fiberglass | $106-$906 |
| Vinyl | $218-$2016 |
| Wood | $323-$1817 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each window installer you're evaluating about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you get a better picture of the financial commitment involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Select a company that focuses on window replacement and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the East Palo Alto area
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Official non-government credentials attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
A California window company must be licensed as a Glazing Contractor, Window Coverings Contractor and General Building Contractor if it takes on jobs valued at over $500. Each license has its own exam and experience requirements. If a contractor is caught working without a license, they'll have to pay steep fines.
Types of Windows Offered
There are numerous replacement window types you can choose from, and it's crucial to find a company that is experienced with the ones you want. Browse a company's website and reviews for any of these types:
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Crank-out
- Custom
- Double- or single-hung
- Egress
- Garden
- Jalousie
- Picture
- Sliding
- Skylight
- Specialty
- Storm
- Transom
- Vent
Customer Feedback
Reading other customers' stories is one of the smartest ways to screen window companies in your area. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot Referrals can also help you in your company search. Ask each company you're interested in for a list of references, and talk to family and friends about who they use for window installations.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in East Palo Alto
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 boost your home's energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills.
How can I fix a rotting or molding window frame?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- "visible transmittance," which measures how much light enters through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which measures 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 measures how easy it is for air drafts to occur (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.
