How To Choose a Window Company in San Marcos
Each window company has varying offerings and approaches. To simplify the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a major purchase, so balancing cost with quality is vital. Although premium replacement windows may cost more upfront, they often provide better long-term value due to their increased lifespan. The age of your home, as well as the materials, sizes, and styles of replacement windows you opt for, can impact 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. If you're unsure, a window provider can help you figure out which options are best for your home.
To help you form a rough estimate, this table shows the typical cost of the most common residential window types.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $237-$1454 |
| Awning | $343-$955 |
| Bay | $790-$5862 |
| Custom | $351-$977 |
| Casement | $273-$1585 |
| Double-hung | $127-$825 |
| Egress | $234-$585 |
| Glass Block | $46-$593 |
| Picture | $205-$1519 |
| Single-hung | $92-$1563 |
| Skylight | $117-$1411 |
| Sliding | $269-$1367 |
| Storm | $55-$386 |
| Transom | $286-$599 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might choose a material based on your desired look, the local climate, and your energy efficiency goals. For example, wood 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 | $55-$1563 |
| Composite | $564-$1268 |
| Fiberglass | $92-$790 |
| Vinyl | $190-$1758 |
| Wood | $282-$1585 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit application fees, and labor. Ensure that you discuss each of these aspects with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
The longer a window company has served your area, the better its workmanship will likely be. Talk with a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, public and private credentials, and experience. Company websites often have photo galleries showing off previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
A California window company must be licensed as a Window Coverings Contractor, Glazing Contractor and General Building Contractor if it performs jobs valued at over $500. Each license has its own test and experience requirements. If a contractor is caught working without a license, they'll have to pay steep fines.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window installers offer the same window styles 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
Perhaps the best way to screen window companies for your job is to see what previous customers have said about them. You can find customer reviews on websites like the BBB, Trustpilot, Google, and Yelp. Talk to people you know who have used the company you're interested in, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in San Marcos
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
What time of year should I replace my windows?
Is it better to replace all my windows at once, or just a few at a time?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
