How To Choose a Window Company in Rancho Santa Margarita
Each window provider has varying offerings and approaches. To ease the company search, keep these factors in mind:
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. Although high-quality replacement windows may cost more upfront, they often yield better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The size, style, and material of your new windows play the largest role in determining your final cost. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. A professional can help you with selecting the solutions that fit your requirements.
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 | $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
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners frequently make their selection by considering aesthetic preferences, energy efficiency objectives and the local climate. 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 warping and wear. 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 | $54-$1539 |
| Composite | $555-$1248 |
| Fiberglass | $91-$778 |
| Vinyl | $187-$1731 |
| Wood | $277-$1560 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each company you're considering about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you understand the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
The longer a window provider has been in business, the better its workmanship will likely be. Speak with a company representative to learn more about its experience, guarantees, and public and private credentials. Company websites often have photo galleries showing off previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
A California window business must be licensed as a General Building Contractor, Window Coverings Contractor and Glazing Contractor if it performs jobs valued at over $500. Each certification has its own test and work requirements. If a contractor is caught working without a license, they'll have to pay hefty penalties.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you want should play a role in your company choice. Not every installation crew will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will reveal more about the window types it specializes in, 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
Perhaps the best way to vet window companies for your job is to check 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. Ask 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 Rancho Santa Margarita
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 purchasing new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
How frequently should I upgrade or replace my windows?
How do replacement windows differ from new construction windows?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
