How To Choose a Window Company in Lancaster
With Lancaster's large population, you're sure to find a reliable replacement window company that suits your values and preferences. As you contact companies, keep the following factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to replacing your windows, cost-effectiveness is paramount. Each window you buy should provide maximum durability at an affordable price point. Choosing cheap windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, as well as the materials, styles, and sizes 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. If you're undecided, a window specialist can help you figure out which options are most suitable for your home.
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
Replacement window prices also vary based on material. Each option offers unique advantages depending on your climate and energy-saving goals. Vinyl and fiberglass are readily-available materials, so they tend to cost less. Likewise, composites and aluminum look sleek and stay strong in Lancaster's strong storms, so they tend to cost more.
| 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 evaluating about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you get a clear picture of the financial commitment involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Peruse a company's website and talk to a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and guarantees. Many window companies also keep online portfolios that present past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more dedicated instruction its staff has, and the longer it has been in operation, the more likely it will deliver top-notch craftsmanship.
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 certification has its own test and experience requirements. If a contractor is caught working without a license, they'll have to pay substantial fines.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you prefer should factor into your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will reveal more about the window types it focuses on, 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 simplest ways to vet a company is to see what other customers have said about their experiences. Read customer reviews on sites such as Google, Trustpilot, and Yelp. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Speak with people you know who have used the company you're evaluating, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Lancaster
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
According to the federal Department of Energy, as much as 33% of a house's HVAC usage is to compensate for the heat or cold entering through windows. Energy-efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and in during the wintertime, improving your comfort and furthering your dollar.
I've heard there are tax credits for energy-efficient windows. How much could I save?
Should I replace my windows a couple at a time, or is it more economical to replace them all at once?
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