How To Choose a Window Company in Petaluma
Each window provider has unique offerings and approaches. To ease the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's essential to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing economy windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The size, style, and material of your replacement 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 new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. It's recommended to consult a reliable window installer to determine your best options.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $247-$1519 |
| Awning | $358-$997 |
| Bay | $825-$6122 |
| Custom | $367-$1020 |
| Casement | $285-$1655 |
| Double-hung | $133-$861 |
| Egress | $244-$611 |
| Glass Block | $48-$619 |
| Picture | $214-$1587 |
| Single-hung | $97-$1632 |
| Skylight | $122-$1473 |
| Sliding | $281-$1428 |
| Storm | $58-$403 |
| Transom | $299-$625 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners usually choose a material based on aesthetic preferences, energy efficiency objectives and the local climate. Aluminum windows are perfect for sleek, modern designs, but they cost more up-front. Wood windows cost less 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 | $58-$1632 |
| Composite | $589-$1324 |
| Fiberglass | $97-$825 |
| Vinyl | $198-$1836 |
| Wood | $294-$1655 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your contractor will factor the price for your windows and the value of their services into its total estimate. Make sure to take into account the cost of labor, guarantees, and any other additional costs that your project may need.
Experience and Training
The longer a window installer has served your area, the better its workmanship will likely be. Contact a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, experience, and public and private credentials. Company websites often keep photo galleries showing off previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
A California window installer must be licensed as a Window Coverings Contractor, General Building Contractor and Glazing Contractor if it performs 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 steep fines.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window companies offer the same window styles and materials. Look for one that focuses on 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
Perhaps the best way to evaluate window companies for your job is to see what previous customers have said about them. 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 the company you'd like to hire, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Petaluma
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
What is the maintenance schedule for an average window, and how long will it last?
What kinds of repairs can my window company perform?
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