How To Choose a Window Company in Lake Forest
Each window installer has unique offerings and approaches. To streamline the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to window replacement, value is king. Each window you buy should deliver unparalleled durability at a fair price point. Although top-of-the-line replacement windows may cost more upfront, they often provide better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The size, material, and style of your new windows play the largest role in determining your final cost. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. If you're unsure, a window specialist can help you figure out which options are ideal for your home.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $233-$1432 |
| Awning | $337-$940 |
| Bay | $778-$5771 |
| Custom | $346-$961 |
| Casement | $269-$1560 |
| Double-hung | $125-$812 |
| Egress | $230-$576 |
| Glass Block | $46-$584 |
| Picture | $202-$1496 |
| Single-hung | $91-$1539 |
| Skylight | $115-$1389 |
| Sliding | $265-$1346 |
| Storm | $54-$380 |
| Transom | $282-$589 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might select a material based on your energy efficiency goals, your desired look, 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 | $54-$1539 |
| Composite | $555-$1248 |
| Fiberglass | $91-$778 |
| Vinyl | $187-$1731 |
| Wood | $277-$1560 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each company you're evaluating about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you get a clear picture of the overall expenses involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Choose a business that focuses on window replacement and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been in business
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Privately-issued certifications attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
A California window installer must be licensed as a General Building Contractor, Window Coverings Contractor and Glazing Contractor if it performs jobs valued at over $500. Each license has its own exam and work requirements. If a contractor is caught working without a license, they'll have to pay hefty penalties.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window companies offer the same window types and materials. Look for 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
Reading other customers' stories is an excellent way to screen potential window companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. 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 Lake Forest
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 investing in new, more efficient windows, you can enhance your home's energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills.
How can I fix a rotting or molding window frame?
How can I fix a broken window screen?
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