How To Choose a Window Company in Tracy
Each window provider has varying offerings and approaches. To streamline the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a significant undertaking, so balancing cost with durability is crucial. Although high-quality replacement windows may be more expensive to buy, they often provide better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The final cost of your window replacement will hinge on the specific sizes, styles, and materials you need. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. If you're undecided, a window provider can help you figure out which options are best 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 | $217-$1334 |
| Awning | $314-$876 |
| Bay | $724-$5377 |
| Custom | $322-$896 |
| Casement | $250-$1453 |
| Double-hung | $117-$756 |
| Egress | $215-$536 |
| Glass Block | $43-$544 |
| Picture | $188-$1394 |
| Single-hung | $85-$1434 |
| Skylight | $107-$1294 |
| Sliding | $246-$1254 |
| Storm | $50-$354 |
| Transom | $262-$549 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners often make their selection by considering aesthetic preferences, energy efficiency objectives 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 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 | $50-$1434 |
| Composite | $517-$1163 |
| Fiberglass | $85-$724 |
| Vinyl | $174-$1613 |
| Wood | $258-$1453 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your contractor will factor the price for your windows and the value of their services into its total estimate. Make sure to assess the cost of labor, warranties, and any other additional costs that your project may require.
Experience and Training
Choose a provider 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
- Official non-government certifications attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
A California window business must be licensed as a General Building Contractor, Window Coverings Contractor and Glazing Contractor if it performs jobs valued at over $500. Each license has its own exam 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 contractors offer the same window styles and materials. Find one that's an expert 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 read what previous customers have said about them. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Trustpilot, the BBB, and Google 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 Tracy
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
Do I need a building permit to replace my home's windows?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- "visible transmittance," which measures how much light passes through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which measures how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which measures how well a window can resist moisture (the higher the number, the better)
- "Air leakage," which evaluates 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.
