How To Choose a Window Company in Seal Beach
Trustworthiness is key when it comes to choosing a window replacement company. However, your chosen company should also match your priorities and respect your vision. Consider the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new 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 increase your overall cost, due to their shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, in addition to the materials, styles, and sizes of windows you select, can affect pricing. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. If you're undecided, a window company can help you figure out which options are most suitable for your home.
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 select a window material. Homeowners usually choose a material based on energy efficiency objectives, aesthetic preferences 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
Your total cost for new windows will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Be sure to discuss each of these elements with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
The longer a window installer has been operating, 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 demonstrating previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
A California window business must be licensed as a Glazing Contractor, Window Coverings Contractor and General Building Contractor if it handles 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
The style of window you want should factor into your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will provide more about the kinds of windows it works with, 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
Reading other customers' stories is a great way to screen different window replacement companies. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Yelp, the BBB, and Trustpilot 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 Seal Beach
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
According to the national Department of Energy, up to a third 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 retain heat in the wintertime, both protecting your comfort and saving you money.
Do I need a building permit to replace my home's windows?
What kinds of repairs can my window company perform?
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