How To Choose a Window Company in Novato
It's important to find a window replacement company that aligns with your specific values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following traits during your search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's crucial to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Although high-quality replacement windows may be more expensive to buy, they often yield better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The age of your home, in addition to the styles, sizes, and materials of windows you opt for, can influence pricing. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. A window expert can guide you through picking the products that fit your needs.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $276-$1693 |
| Awning | $399-$1112 |
| Bay | $920-$6825 |
| Custom | $409-$1137 |
| Casement | $318-$1845 |
| Double-hung | $148-$960 |
| Egress | $273-$681 |
| Glass Block | $54-$690 |
| Picture | $239-$1769 |
| Single-hung | $108-$1820 |
| Skylight | $136-$1643 |
| Sliding | $313-$1592 |
| Storm | $64-$449 |
| Transom | $333-$697 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners often choose a material based on aesthetic preferences, the local climate 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 | $64-$1820 |
| Composite | $657-$1476 |
| Fiberglass | $108-$920 |
| Vinyl | $221-$2047 |
| Wood | $328-$1845 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each company you're evaluating about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you get a better picture of the financial commitment involved in the project.
Experience and Training
The longer a window company has been in business, the better its workmanship will likely be. Contact a company representative to learn more about its experience, public and private credentials, and guarantees. Company websites often have photo galleries where you can see previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
A California window business must be licensed as a General Building Contractor, Glazing Contractor and Window Coverings Contractor if it handles jobs valued at over $500. Each certification 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 installers offer the same window types 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 best ways to evaluate a company is to check what other customers have written about their experiences. You can find customer reviews on websites like the BBB, Google, Trustpilot, and Yelp. 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 Novato
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
What time of year should I replace my windows?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- Air leakage rating, which indicates how tight a window's seal is
- Condensation resistance, which shows how a window deals with moisture
- U-factor, which measures a window's temperature-insulating capability
- Visible transmittance, which measures how much visible light passes through a window
- Solar heat gain coefficient, which determines how much heat from sunlight can pass through the window
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
