How To Choose a Window Company in Santa Maria
It's important to find a window installer that meets your unique values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following areas during your hunt:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's important 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, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, in addition to the sizes, materials, and styles of windows you choose, can influence pricing. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. If you're undecided, a window provider can help you determine which options are ideal for your home.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $237-$1456 |
| Awning | $343-$956 |
| Bay | $791-$5869 |
| Custom | $352-$978 |
| Casement | $273-$1587 |
| Double-hung | $127-$826 |
| Egress | $234-$586 |
| Glass Block | $46-$593 |
| Picture | $206-$1521 |
| Single-hung | $93-$1565 |
| Skylight | $117-$1413 |
| Sliding | $269-$1369 |
| Storm | $55-$386 |
| Transom | $286-$600 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might select a material based on the local climate, your energy efficiency goals, and your desired look. 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-$1565 |
| Composite | $565-$1269 |
| Fiberglass | $93-$791 |
| Vinyl | $190-$1760 |
| Wood | $282-$1587 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each window installer you're evaluating about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you understand the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Choose a company that focuses on window repair and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been in business
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Privately-issued certifications attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
A California window company must be licensed as a Glazing Contractor, Window Coverings Contractor and General Building Contractor if it takes on 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 substantial fines.
Types of Windows Offered
No two businesses offer the same window styles and materials. Find 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 prescreen window companies for your job is to find out what previous customers have said about them. Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Google, and Yelp. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. 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 Santa Maria
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
What should I do if a window is molding or has rot?
What repair services do window companies offer?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
