How To Choose a Window Company in San Lorenzo
Each window installer has specialized offerings and approaches. To simplify the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new 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 windows may be more expensive to buy, they often provide better long-term value due to their increased lifespan. The total cost of your window replacement will depend on the specific sizes, styles, and materials you need. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. It's advisable to consult a trusted window installer to determine your ideal options.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $255-$1569 |
| Awning | $370-$1030 |
| Bay | $852-$6323 |
| Custom | $379-$1053 |
| Casement | $295-$1709 |
| Double-hung | $137-$889 |
| Egress | $252-$631 |
| Glass Block | $50-$639 |
| Picture | $222-$1639 |
| Single-hung | $100-$1686 |
| Skylight | $126-$1522 |
| Sliding | $290-$1475 |
| Storm | $59-$416 |
| Transom | $309-$646 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might choose a material based on the local climate, your desired look, and your energy efficiency goals. For example, wooden windows 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 against the elements, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $59-$1686 |
| Composite | $608-$1367 |
| Fiberglass | $100-$852 |
| Vinyl | $205-$1897 |
| Wood | $304-$1709 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're evaluating about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you get a clear picture of the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Browse a company's website and chat with a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many window companies also keep online portfolios that showcase past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more dedicated instruction its staff has, and the longer it has been active, the more likely it will deliver high-quality craftsmanship.
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 license 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
The style of window you want should factor into your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the window styles you want. A company website will show more about the varieties of windows 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
Perhaps the best way to vet window companies for your job is to check what previous customers have said about them. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Yelp, Google, and the BBB 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 San Lorenzo
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
According to the national 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, both protecting your comfort and saving you money.
Are there tax incentives for installing energy-efficient windows?
What's different between a new construction window and a replacement window?
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