How To Choose a Window Company in Rancho Palos Verdes
An exceptional reputation is key when it comes to choosing a window installer. However, your chosen company should also match your needs and understand your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement 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 cheap windows could actually raise your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The style, material, and size of your replacement windows have the greatest impact on your final cost. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. It's wise to speak with a vetted window installer to determine your ideal options.
In this table, you can find cost data for the most common residential window types to determine how much you might pay.
| 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
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might select a material based on your desired look, the local climate, and your energy efficiency goals. For example, windows made of wood 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 in Rancho Palos Verdes' strong storms, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $57-$1606 |
| Composite | $580-$1303 |
| Fiberglass | $95-$812 |
| Vinyl | $195-$1807 |
| Wood | $290-$1629 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include applicable warranty fees, permit application fees, and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these elements with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
The longer a window company has been operating, the better its workmanship will likely be. Contact a company representative to learn more about its experience, guarantees, and public and private credentials. Company websites often have photo galleries showcasing previous work technicians have done.
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 exam and work requirements. If a contractor is caught working without a license, they'll have to pay substantial fines.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window companies offer the same window types and materials. Look for 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
Reading other customers' stories is one of the smartest ways to screen different window companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. 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 Rancho Palos Verdes
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 investing in new, more efficient windows, you can enhance your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
How frequently should I upgrade or replace my windows?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- "visible transmittance," which indicates how much light passes through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which measures how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which shows how well a window can resist moisture (the higher the number, the better)
- "Air leakage," which evaluates how easy it is for air drafts to develop (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.
