How To Choose a Window Company in South San Francisco
Each window company has varying offerings and approaches. To streamline the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to upgrading your windows, value is most important. Each window you purchase should provide top-notch durability at an affordable price point. Choosing economy windows could actually raise your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The style, material, and size of your new windows have the greatest impact on your final cost. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. A professional can guide you through selecting the solutions that fit your preferences.
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 | $271-$1666 |
| Awning | $393-$1094 |
| Bay | $905-$6717 |
| Custom | $403-$1119 |
| Casement | $313-$1816 |
| Double-hung | $146-$945 |
| Egress | $268-$670 |
| Glass Block | $53-$679 |
| Picture | $235-$1741 |
| Single-hung | $106-$1791 |
| Skylight | $134-$1617 |
| Sliding | $308-$1567 |
| Storm | $63-$442 |
| Transom | $328-$686 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners usually make their selection by considering energy efficiency objectives, the local climate and aesthetic preferences. 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 wear and warping. 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 | $63-$1791 |
| Composite | $646-$1453 |
| Fiberglass | $106-$905 |
| Vinyl | $217-$2015 |
| Wood | $323-$1816 |
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
Choose a provider that focuses on window replacement and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been in business
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Official non-government accreditations attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
A California window provider must be licensed as a Window Coverings Contractor, Glazing Contractor and General Building Contractor if it handles 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 companies offer the same window types and materials. Look for one that focuses on 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
Reading other customers' stories is an interesting way to screen potential window companies. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Yelp, the BBB, and Google 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 South San Francisco
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.
What should I do if a window is molding or has rot?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- "visible transmittance," which measures how much light can enter through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which tells you how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which determines how well a window can resist moisture (the higher the number, the better)
- "Air leakage," which measures how easy it is for air drafts to develop (the lower the number, the better)
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
